The Happy Graduate

“Happy Days are Here Again!”

GIFTS FOR GRADUATION

Congratulations are in order and The Virginia Shopper has been scouring the state for  most wonderful gifts for the happy graduate.

Are you ready?

Get set.

GO!

P.S.  Don’t forget – these wondrous gifts are available at Virginia Born and Bred!

P.S.S.  If you don’t see your school here, check out “Collegiate Art” in the Virginia Born and Bred online catalog! There is a large selection!

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN…The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

James Madison University
Framed Art

Sepia Panoramic View
Virginia Military Institute Campus

Virginia Military Institute
Framed Art

The Gift of Time

Oh my!  The VIRGINIA SHOPPER has found another treasure-of-a-gift!  And this time it’s TIME.  I mean to say, “If you are looking for something truly unique, the gift of time presented in an unusual way is priceless.”

Uh Oh, I don’t think I am making myself  perfectly clear and as you know, The SHOPPER is never at a loss for words.

To clarify, I mean:

I have found a clock that makes a statement.

When Pigs Fly

Actually, I found two clocks that make statements.  Both are at Virginia Born and Bred.

What I really mean is, “Please look at these two delightful clocks that make different statements.”

Is there a graduate in your near future?  A birthday?  Mother’s Day?

Or do you give gifts “just for love” like I do?

Sometimes I give gifts to myself “just for love” too.  Hmmmmmm!

These ADORABLE, fun, funny clocks are NOT yet available in the Virginia Born and Bred catalog, but you can call in your order at 540 463-1832 or stop by the store to get one.  But, if you’re looking for other unique gifts to give, do check out their jam-packed catalog too!

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN….. The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

Does Your State Have a State Animal?

Virginia has a state animal!

It’s the Black Bear!  Who knew?

Well, no wonder The VIRGINIA SHOPPER’S favorite shop, Virginia Born and Bred, has Sam-the-Bear as a front door mascot  to welcome visitors!  There’s a mini Sam inside too.

Virginia also has a:

• State Beverage – Milk (Let’s Paaaaarty!)
•  State Bird – Cardinal
• State Dance – The Reel
• State Fish – Brook Trout
• State Dog (not an animal?) – American Fox Hound
  

  Hand Painted Dog Pillows
  At Virginia Born and Bred

• State Flower – Dogwood
  

  Double Dogwood Pin
  at Virginia Born and Bred

• State Tree – Dogwood
• and (no kidding) State Insect – Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly

It’s amazing what the SHOPPER discovers when roaming.

And of course, there’s always Virginia’s official tourism slogan,

“Virginia is for Lovers!”

Both the Mini-Sam-the-Bear and the Virginia is for Lovers T-Shirts are available in-store or by telephone order only:  540 463-1832.  But, be sure to browse the Virginia Born and Bred online catalog to find other fabulous treasures!

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN……. The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

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Good News for Snackers

I know.  You know me as The VIRGINIA SHOPPER, but I am temporarily changing my name to:

THE GOURMET SNACKER

“Why?” you ask.  Well, it is because I have found the most scrumptious snack EVER!  I mean it.  It’s like a major discovery!

It’s called GOOD NEWS GRANOLA! 

Now, I am not a big granola fan.  In fact, I can’t even tell you the last time I  purchased granola for any purpose, and of course, forget making it myself.    Maybe a hundred years ago, when I was dragged into a camping trip with the family, I might have given it some thought, but only briefly.

The other day I was roaming around Virginia Born and Bred in Lexington, Virginia.  It’s a little store that’s mighty big on wonderful gifts like pottery, jewelry, garden and home decor, and by the way -  gourmet foods.

A Taste Sensation

And since I sort of know the owner, she gave me a taste of something new in the shop!   “This is handcrafted granola,” she said, “full of healthy things and no preservatives! Just wait until you try this!”   And the first taste was of the Maple, Pecans and Coconut combo.  The second taste was of Cashews and Coconut!    I bought them both on the spot and began munching in the car on the way home.  Unbelievable.  Absolutely scrumptious!

 This stuff is so irresistible that I now wake up thinking about it!  Each morning I prepare a bowl to keep by my side as I work at the computer or watch t.v., and I leave a bowl sitting on the kitchen counter for when there are mysterious hunger pangs.  I may even put a bowl next to the treadmill!

I already gave one bag away to a friend.  Her reaction?  “OMG, where did you get this?  This is delicious!”  What a great gift!

Keeping a Secret or Not

I am thinking, “Maybe I shouldn’t release this blog post.  There could be a run on the stuff and when I need want more they will be sold out!  Should I release this information?  Should I not?”  My reputation is at stake here (to say nothing of a guilty conscience) and never let it be said that The VIRGINIA SHOPPER keeps secrets about wonderful products.

O.k. – so here it is.

Please note this wonderful granola is not yet available in the Virginia Born and Bred online catalog. There are plans though.  In the meantime, you can only get it if you visit the store in person or if you call to place your order.  The telephone number is 540 463-1832. 

There are lots of other fabulous finds in the catalog though so if you want to look around, just click here for Virginia Born and Bred.

‘Til we meet again…… The GOURMET SNACKER The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

Gifts of Spring in Virginia!

Spring has sprung in Virginia!

O.K. – it hasn’t exactly steamrolled into this part of Virginia, but there are hints.

There are the daffodils displaying their brave yellow color.  Their happy flowers flourish in spite of returning snows and wailing winds.

And there are the robins with their conventions and conversations in the back yard.

And there is that fresh scent, that touch of green, the little soft wind that creeps in with the morning sun.

Yes, the signs of life are returning to Virginia, and The VIRGINIA SHOPPER woke up from a long winter’s nap and is finally out and about again in search of the maximum shopping experience!

Gifts?  Are you searching for gifts – for your special people or better yet, for you?

SHOPPING AND SPRING GO TOGETHER!

AND LOOK WHAT I FOUND AT VIRGINIA BORN AND BRED!

You can find these and a slew of wonderful shopping finds –  from gourmet foods to elegant jewels, along with incredible works of local artists, and even elegant items for home decor!  Go to Virginia Born and Bred’s fabulous online catalog to see what’s new, what’s best and stay tuned for things to come by checking back often.

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN…….  The VIRGINIA SHOPPER! 

Sunrise-Sunset Pendant

Sunrise-Sunset Sun Dial

Songbird House with Copper Roof

Frog Prince Thermometer

Damask Rooster Placemats

The Virginia Shopper’s “After” Sale

Everybody loves a sale!

And of course, The VIRGINIA SHOPPER is no exception.  O.K. – it was fun shopping for the holidays (depending on your version of “fun”), but the real fun is always AFTER.

AFTER all the gifts are given.

AFTER all the wrapping has been discarded or rerouted.

AFTER all the returns are returned.

AFTER all the prices on the best things are reduced to ROCK BOTTOM PRICES!!

Yep – The VIRGINIA SHOPPER is an AFTER-SHOPPER-HOLIC!  And no wonder – just look what’s available for a short time at Virginia Born and Bred and I’m stocking up for 2013! What about you?

Great Guest Towels
$13.48 – Reg. $26.95

Goodness Gracie’s
Heavenly Toffee Cookies
$16.46 – Reg. $21.95!

Boston Fern Print
$32.21 – Reg. $42.95!

The Parade
Christmas Ornament
$14.98 -Reg. $29.95

Beeswax Candles
Set of 3
$11.98 – Reg. $23.95

Heavenly Peace Framed Print
$70.00 – Reg. $100!

Tartan Plaid Placemats
$13.48 – Reg. $26.95!

Birds Love Holiday Gifts Too!

GREETINGS FROM THE VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

As you may know, I am charged with wandering the state (mostly online) discovering the nicest things and places to share with other savvy shoppers. That’s the fun of it!  But, what would I REALLY like to receive in my mailbox?

Of all the items I have ever loved about Virginia, there is one little thing I would really like to have.  It’s the perfect gift for family and friends and the perfect gift to myself.  Maybe it’s the perfect gift for you too.  It’s definitely a gift “for the birds!”  And I mean that in the most literal way.

Don’t go away please!    I’m not done regaling the virtues of this phenomenal thing.

-          It’s the most unique gift imaginable.

-          I want one for myself – I mean, for my birds.

-  I want one for Aunt Mary.

-          It will add character to any outdoor place around the house.

-          It is so odd looking that it will spark conversation

-          It is so attractive, I may get four – for

Granny Smith, Aunt Mary, Uncle Joe, and me!

-          It has a historical flavor and purpose.

-          It’s lightweight for easy shipping.

-          It’s reasonably priced.

-          I LOVE it!

What is this perfect little thing?

THE WILLIAMSBUG BIRD BOTTLE!

A bottle for birds?  Really?  Look closely and you will see the face of a sweet little bird who has already made the bottle her home!

And here’s the history:

Williamsburg, Virginia is the nation’s largest living history museum!  Would you believe over 4 million people visit there each year?

In the 18^th century, Virginia colonists in Williamsburg figured out how to attract birds (who would control insects) by attaching this beautiful Bird Bottle to their homes!

The one in the picture is a wonderful reproduction made of redware pottery and modeled after an original bottle excavated at Colonial Williamsburg.  How’s that for an interesting thing in the annals of American history?

What do you do with the Williamsburg Bird Bottle?  With a single nail, you can hang it from a tree or on the side of any building, and guess what – the birds love it!

I recently received a birthday gift certificate from Virginia Born and Bred.  What do I want from my favorite little store?  There are so many things to choose from!  And that’s how I decided on the Williamsburg Bird Bottle.

If you come for a visit, you will find one attached to a favorite tree within easy view from my living room window and another one attached to the house!  Granny Smith, Aunt Mary, and Uncle Joe will all have theirs too.

Bird lovers beware.  You may not want to stop at one!

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN… The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

P.S. The Bird Mailbox at the top of this piece is also available at Virginia Born and Bred.

The Raleigh Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, USA. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: A recreation workshop on Duke of Gloucester street in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Tourists on horse and wagon tour of CW (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Vintage Santa Brigade

Holiday Greetings from the Virginia Shopper!

After hitting the mega malls on a recent pre-black-Friday-black-Monday excursion, I am now convinced that smaller is better.

The mega shops are just that – Mega – meaning too full of tired, worn, same old, same old stuff and nothing with character or pizazz.   I’ve re-found my favorite little store in Lexington, Virginia.  It’s truly local but still offers unique and wonderful items online!  So, if you’re in town shopping, be sure to stop by Virginia Born and Bred.  And if you’re out of town, take a look at their internet catalog!

I FOUND THE PERFECT GIFT!

This time, the SHOPPER stumbled on  something  to bring smiles to every holiday occasion.  This is not only the perfect gift, it’s perfect for any holiday home décor, a great centerpiece at a party, a welcome addition to any mantle, a cheery hello in any guest room.  Did I say, “perfect?”  That’s an understatement!  What is it?

The 2012 Chesapeake Santa – The Shell Seeker

The 2012 Limited Edition Chesapeake Santa is inspired by our love and dedication to the oceans, bays and gulf that many of us have spent untold hours visiting and walking along. He is dressed in rich coral that reflects the color found in many shells and he is accompanied by the Piping Plover which has unfortunately become endangered in many coastal areas. This would be a wonderful addition to any Santa collection. 17″ Tall.

Oh, and I forgot – there is literally a Santa Brigade at Virginia Born and Bred because the Vintage Santa Series is another group of Santas who come in three different colors!  Imagine?  He’s not only perfect in the traditional Red Santa Suit, but if you’re blending holiday accessories into a color-schemed décor, you can get him in Tan or Green.

Anyway, be sure to  check out all the other grand gift ideas at Virginia Born and Bred – either at the little shop in town or via their online catalog.  It’s a treasure trove of ideas!

‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN…..  The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!

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Christmas Shopping Blues

Reblogged from Virginia Views:

Yesterday I went Christmas shopping.  I had to leave my lovely little town where everybody knows my name to venture out into a mega mall universe.  It was a terrifying, disheartening experience.  I just don’t fit in the outside world anymore.  Maybe I am too old fashioned, too uptight, too something to cope with the strange behaviors of both shoppers and shops nowadays.

Read more… 997 more words

The Virginia Shopper tried leaving town but scurried back to shop once again at Virginia Born and Bred, where the living is easy and the shopping is too.

Breakfast in Virginia

The Blue Ridge Breakfast Gift Basket

The VIRGINIA SHOPPER is on the prowl again!  It’s Fall after all, and the nip in the air stirs up a hunger for a hefty breakfast!  Breakfast is the most important meal of the day they say, and I believe it, don’t you?  And giving a gourmet breakfast gift basket for any special occasion is one of the nicest things I could ever do.  Reserving one for myself and my family is certainly next on my list too!

Breakfast Baskets make fantabulous gifts for special people.

Picture this:  When we  visit my Aunt Mary, she fixes pancakes and bacon every Sunday morning for our whole family.  She doesn’t have to wake us up either because the tantalizing aromas from the kitchen do the trick.  We all come bounding down the stairs hollering, “What’s for breakfast?” as if we didn’t know.

WHAT’S FOR BREAKFAST?

Well, Aunt Mary is getting a grand surprise for her birthday!  The Blue Ridge Breakfast Gift Basket!  I found it at my favorite little shop in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.  It’s where gourmet foods are a proud specialty, and if Teddy (the store’s puppy mascot) doesn’t get to the sausage first, the breakfast baskets are some of the most popular items on the store’s menu of top-o-the-line gifts.

There’s the  Shenandoah Valley Breakfast- This beautifully decorated gift basket is filled with 12 oz. Edwards Hickory Smoked Gourmet Bacon, 1 lb. Byrd Mill Cinnamon Muffin Mix, a Wade’s Mill Biscuit Mix, Fancy Hill Blackberry Jam, a mug of Mountain Valley Honey, and Virginia Born & Bred Coffee.

Shenandoah Valley Breakfast

Or how about Biscuits and Jam? A classic southern pleasure: fresh warm biscuits with homemade jam. Fancy Hill’s jams are made the old-fashioned way, one batch at a time in the family kitchen, and Wade’s Mill stone-ground flours are milled in a traditional style daily right here in Rockbridge County from all-organic grains.

Biscuits and Jam Delight

The Family Gathering Breakfast Basket is the answer to any breakfast lover’s dream! The ultimate in breakfast foods straight from the heart of Virginia, this beautifully decorated gift basket is filled to overflowing with Edwards breakfast meats: 12 oz. of delicious Hickory Smoked Sausage Links, 12 oz. Pepper-Coated Virginia Country Bacon, 12 oz. Edwards Hickory Smoked Dry-Cured Country Bacon; 12 oz. Edwards Smoked Dry-Cured Country Style Virginia Ham Slices, ready to fry; 1 lb. Wades Mill White Grits, 1 lb. Wade’s Mill Biscuit Mix; 8 oz. each of Fancy Hill Apple Butter and Strawberry-Rhubarb jam; Virginia Born & Bred Coffee; 12 oz. Old Mill Pancake and Waffle Mix; a mug of Mountain Valley Virginia Honey; and 8 oz. Sugar Tree Maple Syrup from Virginia’s Highland County to top it off.  Everything you need to serve breakfast for the entire family.

Breakfast Anyone?  Whether for a family gathering, breakfast for two, or as a gift for someone away from home The Virginia Shopper recommends a perfect solution for a hearty, delicious breakfast.  Virginia born and Bred can put together a custom basket for you so your breakfast is absolutely perfect!

‘Til We Meet Again… The VIRGINIA SHOPPER!