An optimistic resource for on-the-go families. Ollie and BOP join forces to go fetch products, tips, tools and inspiration to make this fleeting time in life all the better.
Brrrrrr! The past few mornings we’ve seen subzero temperatures here in the Northeast. It’s absolutely freezing!
Which reminds me of a favorite new tween/teen thing in our house; Jumpin Jammerz – the “original adult footed pajamas.” Ella received the “brown cow” version for Christmas {below, right}, and she looooves them. And, her friends love them too! It seems that when a friend sleeps over, they inevitably end up borrowing Ella’s Jumpin Jammerz at some point. Then they ask where we got them! So I’ll tell ya.
There are so many different styles and patterns in the Jumpin Jammerz world. Such as…
And these aren’t just for girls. Though honestly, Mr. BOP and 14 year old Hudson aren’t exactly begging for a pair. But there might be a guy in your house who feels differently.
A few more details: Jumpin’ Jammerz are around $50 — a splurge item. They’re available through Amazon and jumpinjammerz.com.
{Note that they contain a few photos of an “adult” nature — having to do with the “trap door” styles! Don’t go shopping with your 6 year old…}
Jumpin Jammerz are made for adults, so they’re an older tween/teen/grownup thing. Ella {age 12} is in an XS, with plenty of room to grow {except for her size 8 feet which just barely fit into the footie part}. The size chart is here.
So what do you think? Cute? Fun? Weird? I’m still not sure where the appeal comes from.
Must be that Jumpin Jammerz makes their owners feel like a goofy little kid again.
Ella and I are crazy about patterned tape. Whatever project or task we’re doing around here, fun tape makes it better.
This is Ella’s school binder. She ripped a page out of a magazine {Lilly Pulitzer ad} and added some tape. The black and white polkadot is one of our favorites {Smashbook black dots} and we’ve picked up other rolls in our travels to places like Paper Dolls here in Saratoga.
The array of types and patterns of tape is “mind bottling,” to quote Chazz Michael Michaelson. To shop for tape, go to Etsy and search for tape or Washi tape. This gorgeous assortment below is from StickerStop on Etsy {click on image for link}:
Other places to find great tape online include Paper Source and Cute Tape. Gift idea — put together a collection of tape for any fun-loving, crafty person in your life.
And speaking of gifts, I mailed this birthday package the other day to my best childhood friend, Rue. I grabbed three kinds of tape and was able to skip a ribbon and keep the card and package together. Fun, right?
First of all — and this has nothing to do with Father’s Day — I have to ask; are you as overwhelmed by this time of year as we are?!? Between the end-of-year events, school pressures and mixed emotions, there’s a lot to take in. We’ll get there, but June is nuts {and by that, I mean difficult}. Are you with me? And if you’re not overwhelmed, please share your secret!
Anywhoo….. to make sure that Mr. BOP — and other important dads — aren’t shortchanged by all of this chaos, I spent some time this afternoon putting together the second Olliebop Father’s Day Gift Guide. No, Mr. BOP is not getting all of these wonderful things; but a few, for sure. I placed orders today, as there’s only two weeks to go!
I hope this collection gives you some ideas; and, there were also some fantastic finds in Last Year’s Father’s Day Gift Guide. Between the two, I’m optimistic that we’ve got you covered:
4. Travel DIY Globe Art Kit by Imagine Nations on Etsy {$24.99 – Globe not included but search “globe” in the vintage section of Etsy for many options}
Hello! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! It’s taken us a while to regroup from our Extravaganza on Cape Cod. Four days, forty five people, three turkeys… it was a celebration to remember. We’re still unpacking, and our holiday decorations today {Wednesday} consist of one bare naked wreath hanging on the front door. I’m looking forward to a weekend of settling in and decking these halls.
So here’s the last Olliebop gift guide! I’ve loved putting the five guides together, as I’ve always gotten a jolt of joy {did I really just say that?} from giving a thoughtful gift. Really — I love giving a good present. I still remember the first time I wrapped a package all by myself; a kid, trying to make all of the corners just right. The paper was brown with white polkadots. Way before brown was back. It was beautiful.
I find, though, that this time of year the deluge of messages asking me to consume can dampen the fun of giving – so I’m trying to stay in the zone of quality, thoughtful gifts and keep some of the shopping “noise” at bay. I’m looking forward to settling in and making some some gifts too, with my own two hands.
This guide covers grandparents, stocking stuffers, hosts and hostesses, and all that jazz. Ollie and I fetched it, just for you.
Personalized Gifts for Grandparents and Extra Special People:
Miniature Holiday Message In A Bottle {$18} By MiniatureRhino on Etsy. Also wonderful: miniature letters and packages from Leafcutter {I’ve seen a Leafcutter package in person and it was fantastic!}
Family Portrait Pillow {$138-$148} From Garnet Hill. Choose which family members are picture on this keepsake pillow. Allow two weeks for shipping.
Oh, and the Personalized Postcard Mug featured here in the Guide for Him {in the middle of the top collage} would be perfect for grandparents!
The Little Things: For Stockings and Such
I love picking up little things locally for stocking stuffers, but there are a few web sites I go to for the funny, pretty, festive little things that round out the collection, especially Papersource and Perpetual Kid.
And here’s a fabulous “little thing” … The best Hot Fudge sauce imaginable, made right here by Sundaes Best in Saratoga Springs. Jars may be bought singly, or in variety packs featuring any of their 10 flavors. A perfect gift for neighbors, teachers, colleagues and friends. Take a peek at all that Sundaes Best has to offer right here!
And speaking of very special treats, here’s the department of extra fancy, yummy, decadent, homey things – to delight hosts and hostesses or anyone, really:
Truffle of the Month Club {$35 for 3 months} Each month includes 16 truffles. Made by EstherAguirre on Etsy
Shifting Gears…
How about a charitable gift from Heifer International? Their mission is clear and provides tangible assistance to families all over the world. Choose from a wide range of animals, plants, or “shares” of a larger item. The cards provided with your gift are beautiful. Have a look at how it works:
And speaking of furry friends…
What’s that you say, Ollie? You want a spiffy collar for the holidays and a new hedgehog? You got it, buddy.
Collars for dogs and cats {$22}. By Restowe on Etsy. Click on Image for link.
I’m looking back up the screen at this guide as it’s complete… amused, as it seems a little scatterbrained. But that’s what this time of year is like! It’s 11:28 pm, and Mr. BOP is sitting beside me playing guitar, and the kids are in bed. Ollie is now snoozing with his feet up in the air, in an undignified pose. I’m thankful for family, friends, and for readers — {you, my dear}. Reminding myself, the days are long, but the years are short. And in this moment, it’s all good. Goodnight! xo
Hmmm…. I’m imagining all of you getting ready for Thanksgiving — in whatever form that may be. Perhaps packing bags, or cooking, or getting on a plane, or making lists of things to do. We’re looking forward to a big family gathering {40+ people for several days} on Cape Cod with Mr. BOP’s crew. This is not our usual plan — and it’s exciting to be doing something completely different. So, at the moment we’re tag-teaming to crank out four batches of chocolate chip cookies, part of our assignment from Cousin Jody. I’m finishing this Gift Guide for Him between batches — trying to keep Mr. BOP from looking over my shoulder and seeing his potential Christmas presents! I think we’ve got a great group of finds here. It’s the biggest Olliebop gift guide yet. I hope you enjoy it. Here we go…
New India Print Belt {$65} By Jon Wye. A stylish accessory, don’t you think? * Update as of 12/8/11. I no longer see the “Himalaya Blue” pictured. Check out other colors, or the wide range of wild designs from Jon Wye.
The Wallet Pen {$75, Engraving for $9} Handcrafted in Vermont. Mr. BOP has loved his; it’s so tiny that it clips into the fold of his wallet.
Fossil Octane East/West Messenger {$75, now on sale} From Ebags. Love this for weekend travel or for more casual business, and the reviews are glowing. The Fossil Wagner also is fabulous. It’s a toss-up, really.
Salt: A World History {$11} On Amazon. By Mark Kurlansky. A friend was just telling me today that her husband couldn’t put this one down. A fascinating look at how an everyday part of our lives {salt} has shaped world history.
Journal Bandolier {$18 – $26} By CleverHands on Etsy. A smart way to bundle his notebook and writing gear together. Color and style choices vary in the shop.
Leatherman Juice CS4 {$50} From Amazon. A classic gift — and one he’ll use over and over.
Planet Earth: The Complete BBC Series {$40} From Amazon. If your guy has yet to experience the jaw-dropping beauty in this series, he’s in for such a treat. Although it may sound a bit “educational” for a weekend evening, this series has been loved by our whole family. With the new lower price, it’s a deal, too.
Robert Graham Party Shirt {$198 and up} From Robert Graham. I can’t begin to imagine which Robert Graham shirt would suit the guy you’re looking for — as there’s quite a range of wild styles and colors. Take a tour around the site and imagine the possibilities! Mr. BOP has two Graham shirts {I should qualify this by saying that we hit a great sale}, and they are his “party shirts.” The attention to detail is incredible — with splashes of color on the hem, cuffs and lapel. A splurge that will make him feel like a million bucks.
Marshmallow Roasters {$14 now on sale, for a set of two} From Restoration Hardware. He can simply relax by the fire, with these telescoping roasters that also spin with a slight movement of the thumb. We’ve had a set for years, and they’re fantastic.
And, Here’s a Special Olliebop Discount at Frittelli & Lockwood!
The Leno Bamboo Scarf: I am so excited to share these beautiful bamboo scarves from Frittelli & Lockwood, a textile studio here in Saratoga Springs. Owners, Richard and Cecilia are an incredible husband and wife team who exemplify a life of creativity, sustainability, and partnership. This recent article beautifully showcases their work. I stopped by the shop the other day and fell in love with these bamboo “Leno” scarves. They are incredibly soft, and so dapper! The photo below is actually of a shawl version of the Leno, so note that the scarf is a bit narrower. Isn’t it gorgeous?
To order a Leno scarf and to receive a 15% discount {off of $105} please call the Textile Studio at (518) 583-2129 or email fritlock@verizon.net, and mention the discount code “Olliebop.” Offer expires December 10. The Leno is pictured here in three colors; blue, grey, and red.
And, here’s one more collection of Fetching Finds:
Cranium Wow {$33} From Amazon. The classic game, updated.
Bicycle Glasses {$75 for a set of 8} From Uncommon Goods. Glassware for a biking enthusiast or anyone who likes some color in the kitchen.
Emergency Toilet {$50} To Benefit Oxfam. “Huh?” You say? Oxfam says, “Don’t feel like flushing your finances for the loved one who has everything? Give a potty as a present, and you will help prevent the spread of deadly diseases in crisis situations. This simple but important gift can save lives by creating more sanitary environments for people living in camps after disaster strikes.“
Cinemin Swivel Projector {$169} From Amazon. A mini, portable movie theater and photo projector that connects with ipods, iphones and other handheld devices {please review product specs for details, as it does not connect with computers}. Several reviewers recommend pairing it with something like Tweakers compact speakers.
Menswear Trays {$6 each} From West Elm. A stylish landing pad for his personal items.
An Experience from Cloud 9 Living {Prices vary greatly} Give the gift of an experience! Pictured, here, a beer tasting sail in New York. Gift Certificates are available too. Here’s how it works.
Grid It {$22} From Flight 001. A web of straps makes a place for everything. A similar version is found here.
Bogs Classic High Muck Boots {$90} From Zappos. Classic and warm for those winter dashes outside or those cold, dirty jobs.
If you’re still looking for ideas after all of that, there are also some finds on the Teen and Tween Guys’ Guide that adults would love too {I’m thinking Buckeyballs, the Boogie Board, the Flash Harp Harmonica and Two Dudes One Pan cookbook}.
There’s one more Gift Guide coming — the Little Things, like stocking stuffers, and host/hostess gifts. But, I need to adjust the schedule and post it after Thanksgiving. Time to go enjoy our Big Giant Thanksgiving celebration! Speaking of which, I am so thankful for having join us here on Olliebop. I really am.
Now that we’ve shopped for Tween and Teen Girls, its the Guys’ turn! There’s a fantastic assortment of gifts in both guides that either guys or girls will enjoy — so be sure to check out both. Guys will love the Freewater House Shoes and Secret Series books in the Girls Guide. And girls will be eyeing some of these finds, for sure.
I’ve linked to Amazon a bunch, but items may be found in a variety of places when Googled. And, as I mentioned here, I hope you’ll enjoy shopping in your own neighborhood too, in support of local business. I love shopping for the holidays in Saratoga.
Got your slippers, beverage, and dog on your feet? I do. Check out these finds for Tween and Teen Guys:
Mini Remote Control Helicopter {$20, Amazon}. Surefire thrills in a small package! This particular one earned topnotch reviews for fun and durability.
Mohawk Hat {$25, now on sale} From American Eagle. A favorite in our winter wear collection. Pricey, but oh-so-cool. Also in navy, grey, and black. Love the AE styles for girls, too. If you’d prefer a handmade version customized with team colors, explore this shop on Etsy. I looove this rainbow mohawk too!
Duck Tape {About $6 a roll} See this post of guys and duct tape in action. I considered suggesting an instructional book here, but there are plenty of free tutorials online. I’d say invest in more tape, instead.
Ticket Stub Diary {$10} From Uncommon Goods. Give as is, or include a surprise concert or game ticket.
Salvaged Vintage Letters {Cheap to Not-So-Cheap} What cooler addition could there be to a guy’s room than gigantic salvaged letters? This pic is from Raleigh Modern. There’s also a great selection at Salvage Nation, both on Etsy. So here’s what you do: go to Etsy and in the pull-down menu at the top of the page select “Vintage.” Type in something like “Large Vintage Letters” or “Letter H,” etc. and numerous results will pop up. Choose an initial, make a collection, or spell something!
Boogie Board Paperless Writing LCT Tablet {$35, Amazon} Makes writing and drawing more fun, with pressure-sensitive technology. A whole new way to take notes, work through math problems or doodle. Multiple colors and accessories on Amazon {as well as a more expensive, larger version}.
Razor Sole Skate {$27} A compact go-anywhere scooter-type thingy. Watch the video to learn more. I haven’t seen these in action, but the reviews are good and they look like so much fun.
Sneaker Customization Kit {$45} From Uncommon Goods. I grant you — the kit may be as expensive as some sneakers, but this specially-formulated paint would be the coolest for a creative guy wanting to break the mold.
Diary of A Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever {$7} Released on November 15 {oh, that’s tomorrow!} Cabin Fever is next in the popular Wimpy Kid series. I don’t totally get it, but I do get that my kids devour these illustrated books.
Buckeyballs {$25 and Up} Visit the site, watch the video {it will appear in the homepage slideshow if you wait a minute} and choose the size and color of your set. Fun, addictive, creative!
Secret Safe Book {$35 – $65} From SecretSafeBooks on Etsy. A real book, hollowed out, with a magnet closure.
Squier by Fender Guitar and Amp Starter Pack {$200}.From Amazon. Also includes stand, Instructional DVD, Cable, Tuner, Gig Bag, Strap and Picks. We’re big into music at Olliebop HQ, so this was a must on the list. A nice quality guitar package for a rockin’ price.
An Offbeat Tshirt {$20 – $25} This one, from Urban Outfitters. Or, Threadless is a go-to site for artist-created T’s {and they offer gift certificates, too}.
Golden Scratch Off Card with Custom Message {$7} By CrankBunny on Etsy. For when you want to reveal a surprise in a totally unconventional way. The entire shop is outrageous!
Dr. Dre Beats Solo Hi-Def Headphones {$192} From Amazon. My sources tell me that this fits the Dr. Dre bill, with a more moderate price tag. Expensive, nonetheless — but these surely have the it factor.
Kiva Gift Card {Increments of $25} Allows your teen to help others across the globe through Kiva’s micro lending concept. Your teen may select from entrepreneurs around the world to loan to, with their gift card. Once the loan is repaid, the cycle may continue by loaning the same money again. A lesson in giving and economics.
Vintage Soda Crates {$60} By BrooklynRetro on Etsy. This is the real deal, to hold stuff. Search in Etsy vintage for similar items to give his room some character.
Plaid Oilcloth Dopp Kit {$16} By LucyBlaireHandmade on Etsy. Some may not agree, but I’d say this is one happening dopp kit. Peruse this shop for girls – or yourself, perhaps.
Two Dudes One Pan Cookbook {$16} From Amazon. I debated saving this one for the Dads’ Guide, but why not get teens going in the kitchen now? The reviews for this cookbook are incredible!
The Worst-Case Survival Handbook: Paranormal {$10} From Amazon. Topics include how to survive a zombie attack, how to survive with scissor hands, and how to make an effective tinfoil hat. Need I say more?
Ampoids Portable Amp and Speaker {$30} By Ampoids, on Etsy. “Hand wired amps that will tickle your auditory nerves.” So clever, and reviewers were digging the sound. Right on.
For those who aren’t regular Etsy users… If an item is “sold,” look around the shop for a similar or identical item. To see an entire Etsy shop look to the right of the item page and click on the small blue shop name. Viola!
Thank you for joining me in shopping for the Guys! I have a funny story to tell you about putting this guide together …. I’ll post that on Facebook tomorrow. I’m looking forward to shopping next for “Her” next — Moms, Sisters, Grandmothers, and Friends. Keep an eye out for that on Thursday, I’d say.
Meanwhile, happy shopping — or happy whatever you happen to be doing this week. If you have a minute, drop me a line on Facebook or in the post comments. I’d love to hear from you!
Just dropping a note to let you know that there’s all sorts of good stuff just around the corner on Olliebop… because we’re going shopping! Christmas and Hanukkah are about six weeks away, and Ollie and I have been collecting an extra special selection of gift ideas to share with you. We have a game plan — so that we can feel great about giving fabulous gifts and get the shopping done in time to enjoy the season. Read on…
Print by PosterPop on Etsy. 8″ x 10 ” {$9.95} Click on Image for Link
Here’s the plan: We’ll share Five Fabulous Gift Guides between now and Thanksgiving — geared toward busy, fun-loving families with tweens and teens. Posted every two or three days, the Guide themes are:
Tween/Teen Girls
Tween/Teen Boys
Her
Him
The Little Things: Stocking Stuffers and Small Gifts
Look for Guide #1 on Olliebop this Friday, and in your email {for Subscribers} on Saturday. Remaining Guides will be shared every two or three days, from there on out. After Thanksgiving we’ll take a look at a few easy, homemade gift ideas and recipes.
I love shopping locally here in Saratoga Springs! Since the majority of Olliebop readers are in far away places, Gift Guide items are primarily for online shopping. But if you are in Saratoga, please support our hometown businesses. Personal favorites on Broadway: Paper Dolls, Silverado, Lifestyles, G. Willikers {an extensive online toy store}, Pipits, and Dawgdom. In the Beekman Street Art District: the Textile Studio {an online shop of beautiful handmade textiles} and Mimosa. And just out of town, Schuyler Pond.
I don’t make a penny from your purchases. These are all things that I just genuinely like!
If you’re enjoying Olliebop, please spread the word — and participate. I really love hearing from you in Olliebop Comments and on Facebook — even if you have something quick to share.
I hope you’ll plan on joining Ollie and me for some fun and productive holiday shopping. Favorite beverage and slippers are a must. Ollie would lie on your feet, if he could {are you cool with that?}. Best to color-coordinate the slippers to match the dog hair.
This is the good kind of postal service downsizing. Look at these teeny tiny letters and packages ready to be sent on your behalf, by Leafcutter Designs. Aren’t they fantastic? Think belated birthday greetings {so charming, you’ll be forgiven}, “hello” to the grandparents, a surprise for a moody teen, or a special announcement… I’m digging this little mail thing.
Leafcutter and Chief Postmaster Lea Redmond delivers teeny tiny letters or teeny tiny packages, each accompanied by a magnifying glass, of course. Bulk orders are accepted too — for the likes of party invitations and special announcements.
Here’s a look at Lea, in action. Although online orders use a handwriting font, Lea also sets up her miniature wooden roll-top desk in cafes and shops in the San Francisco Bay Area and offers a teeny tiny letter transcription service to passers-by. Letters are sealed with a teeny tiny wax seal with the sender’s initial pressed into it, and packaged with a magnifying glass in a sturdy mailing envelope. Letters are $9, plus about $4 shipping.
There is a treasure trove of ideas and products to be discovered at Leafcutter, all on a diminuative scale — with thanks to Lea’s big, giant imagination. I hope you enjoy the Leafcutter world, as I have.
