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Shopping blog featuring products made by people not factories.

What’s In Season Now: December Edition

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When I ventured outside to do chores this morning the thermometer registered a whopping thirteen degrees fahrenheit and this is only the second week of truly winter-like weather we’ve had; which means colder — much colder — is to come. In light of the temperature you can probably understand why I might have some reservations about writing a feature on What’s in Season Now; because here, almost nothing is in season. And as a fair weather kind of woman that makes me terribly cranky. If I’m honest what I really want to write is ‘NOTHING’, stomp my feet and pound my fists a bit for good measure and be done with it.

Sure, there are season-less and storable local fare available in the north. Meats, honey, jams and preserves, winter squashes, potatoes and other root crops, dried beans and grains are all getting a lot of mileage on our dinner table — and venison really is in season — but that’s hardly comforting when I know in locales south there are pomegranates falling from the backyard trees on which they grow and tangerines being harvested in earnest. It’s hardly comforting when I know in the heat of the southern, winter sun a second farmer’s market season is only just getting started.

So, what’s in season now where you are? That entirely depends; perhaps more so than during any other time of year. If you’re in the cold, white north as am I, nothing — or at least very little. If you’re in the warmer south however, some of the most delicious fruits of the season may very well be filling local market tables.

In cold climates look for:

  • Meat
  • Jams
  • Preserves
  • Honey
  • Grains
  • Dried Beans
  • Winter Squash
  • Potatoes
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Greens
  • Apples
  • Pumpkin

If you’re in a warm climate look for:

  • Citrus – Tangerines, Oranges, Grape Fruit, Lemons, Limes and the like
  • Pomegranate
  • Persimmons
  • Shallots
  • Leeks
  • and a second season for those items mentioned in summer editions of What’s In Season Now

Winter Adventure: Ice Skating

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The cold winter months can drag on when you’re stuck inside all day, but sometimes the best thing to do is get out and embrace the chilly weather. The ice rink in downtown Chicago has some of the best views of the city and I would try to go at least once a year to take it all in. It was always crowded and I was always wobbly, but, if nothing else, I would have a good laugh at myself and enjoyed some hot chocolate at the end of it all.

If you’re ever looking for an excuse to put on a twirly dress, ice skating is it. This knit dress by Jessica Rose Design features a full skirt that’s perfect for 360 spins or just trying to stay on your feet. The classic design, v-neck and full skirt are figure flattering for women of all shapes. And, since it’s cold outside, the knit fabric is perfect for layering with sweaters and scarves.

These amazing screen-printed leggings by Pretty Penny Designs are truly going to set you apart on the ice. Made of a cotton Lycra blend, you’ll be able to move around the ice with ease and stay warm as well. The blue and white fireworks pattern is a surprising accessory to your classic blue dress.

Of course, your legs are going to need a bit more warmth if you’re going to be out on the ice all day. These speckled blue leg warmers by Uniquely Chic for You are a great accessory, both on the ice and off. Made of wool and viscose yarn, these are sure to keep your legs warm and the relaxed fit ensure that they will fit right over your ice skates.

The cute and eco-friendly ice skates featured at the top of this post were created by Recycled Parts.

Worth getting Hat Head for

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Knit hats are a classic staple, but these let you keep your ears warm while still looking great.

Right: big purple flower by artish.
1. Creamy Grey Knit Hat by cristin rae.
2. That’s Crazy Talk by If I Had a Boat.
3. Houndstooth by The Spinning Hand.
4. Storm Cloud Hat by sushipie.
5. head warmer by do not eat.
6. Red Bobbles Beanie by MeandTex.
7. go green Knit Hat by schtuff.
8. Beanie with Black Stripe Kindred Knits.
9. brown cabled beanie by artish.

Goodness Gracious

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Looking for something spectacular for your yard? Stop looking now. I’ve found it.

Designed to become an everlasting part of your family tradition, The Great Bowl O’ Fire is an unique work of art hand-cut by artist John T Unger. No two are exactly alike, as the flames are drawn free-hand. Gather friends and family to celebrate around a roaring blaze year-round. The raised bowl allows you to sit comfortably without having to lean forward to stay warm. Keep your feet toasty, tucked below the rim of the bowl and bask in the full-body radiance that a raised firebowl offers. An outdoor fire pit is a great way to extend the outdoor living season.

The Great Bowl O’ Fire makes a stunning focal point for yards, patios and gardens. Unlike many outdoor firepits which look dirty or empty when unlit, The Great Bowl O’ Fire functions as a gorgeous sculptural element either hot or cold. By day, the flame shapes cast intriguing shadows both inside and outside the bowl and the rich tones of the patina suggest a warm blaze. At night, with a fire burning, the bowl casts flickering shadows as lively as the fire within.

The Great Bowl O’ Fire is a gorgeous sculptural element even when not in use. The play of light and shadow as the sun moves across it is as entrancing as the dance of fire.

Maine, USA

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[hTara]

My step-sister, Kate, is back in Pennsylvania this week for some visiting before she starts graduate school in the fall. She might be in between “homes” right now – aren’t all students? But she’s called Maine home for the last 5 years. So in honor of her and her own fabulous creativity, “Shop Local” is coming at you from the land of moose, snow, and trees!

Anabelfuzz - Reversible Cotton Bonnet

Anabelfuzz creates delightful children’s bonnets, clothing, and accessories. They are quite obviously inspired by the climate of Maine. Some bonnets are lined with soft and warm cotton sherpa. Others are meant to keep ears warm on cool spring mornings. There are also apparel items with a distinctly New England shore feel. [Read more…]