November 1, 2007

It's that time of year again.  Yesterday my sister-in-law asked me to send out a holiday wish list.  Honestly, it crept up on me; I hadn't been thinking about it at all.  And it always feels a little strange at first--getting to just run down all of the items I might enjoy having.  I browse my favorite stores online, wander around local shops looking for just the right gifts.  This year, since I know many of my early bird family members happen to read this column, I thought I might make my list here (and we'll see if they take the hint).

Okay, so, first of all, I get cold easily.  This is an unfortunate truth for one like me who loves the snow, but really, it's not so bad.  I simply have to be more prepared than most people.  So, I was quite pleased to discover the range of merino wool garments available at the Arcadian Shop in Lenox.   They have versions of almost every layer in wool, from socks (yes, I genuinely want socks for Christmas now, Dad) to vests, hats, you name it.  Furthermore, if you get on their mailing list, you'll get a 50% off coupon in the mail.

From Berkshire Bike and Board, I would like one of the new Giant Reign mountain bikes.  Or, maybe a snowboard package (If you get me the whole package, you'll get $50 off--don't you just love a bargain, Bruce?  Bruce is my big brother--he's always very generous).  Plus, it's worth noting that they offer a range of financing options, extended warranties, and a lifetime of free tune ups.

And, as for Kevin (my other older brother), remember how we were lamenting the fact that all the best gift giving happens in the winter?   It seems we always have to buy the summer stuff for ourselves.  Well, conveniently enough, Berkshire Outfitters sells fair weather equipment all year round--canoes, kayaks, bicycles, and all the corresponding accoutrement.  They also have sales on last year's Atomic and Rossingol snowboards.  You can surprise me with fun stuff from any season; I like it all.

Lastly, of course, there's my mom.  She is always so sentimental, and I have thought of the perfect thing.  Remember those white ice skates you bought me when I was in college?  Well, I still use them, so I was thinking you could get me a gift certificate to have them sharpened at Plaine's in Pittsfield.  They have special pricing offers on equipment for racers, which is inspiring...of course, I'm not quite in that league yet, even though you like to imagine that I am.

I guess what it all comes down to is that I'm pretty easy to shop for.  What can I say?  Is that a crime?  Honestly, though, I have to tell you something so you don't think I am so selfish:  my family is very easy to shop for, too.  In fact, I'm basically already done.  What am I getting them, you ask?  Well, I can't exactly say here, for reasons I'm sure you can appreciate.  Let's just say it's a good thing my dad has renewed his scuba diver's license.  (Ha ha, just kidding, Dad.)

About Cynthia Saunders 

Cynthia Saunders is a freelance writer and the  Director of Education for the Barrington Stage Company.  A North Adams native and current resident, she is excited to live within walking distance of her favorite restaurants, yoga studio, and movie theatre.  She can be contacted at cynthia.saunders@gmail.com.