Seven days to go, and we’re getting closer by the second — but who’s counting? Between some big work projects and the insanity that was trying to get Adele tickets yesterday (side of the stage view, can’t be too mad at you), I’m ready for some holiday downtime and quality time on the couch.
That does mean though that shopping options are limited if you perhaps have some gifts left to buy. If you’re looking for some local options for this weekend, check out the second annual Crown Heights Holiday Stroll happening from 1-6PM on Saturday. It’s also a great time to head over to any of the other NYC holiday markets – Union Square, Bryant Park, and Columbus Circle. If you haven’t been yet, the Winter Flea + Smorgasburg is open this weekend (and every weekend) and should have some great gift options. You can also head over to Target’s Wonderland at 70 Tenth Avenue (only open through Tuesday).
If you still have a number of gifts to check off your list this week, here’s some things to keep in mind before you hop online:
- If you’re still ordering online, pay close attention to shipping cut-offs. Many stores will highlight this on their site. If they don’t, ask before ordering (or else you might be gifting a print out with a promise of something en route!).
- It’s advisable to not try a vendor you’ve never purchased from before now, as you’ll be gambling a bit on your gift arriving as promised.
- Bigger vendors offering expedited shipping should be safe bets (Amazon, Zappos, etc) – though even those have cut-offs approaching! For Amazon, you need to order by this weekend to get the 2-day shipping in time for the holiday.
- Gift cards, concert/event tickets, and the like are your friend. Not only can you easily grab them close to the holiday, but they’re typically well-received.
And, of course, ’tis the season for baking! If you’re looking for a snack to bring with you to your family gathering or need a quick edible treat for friends and coworkers, I recommend you give these white chocolate covered pretzels a go. They are a nice sweet/salty combo that pleases even the non-sweet-eater in the family.
- Pretzels (standard small, thin variety is what you need – think Rold Gold)
- White chocolate (a pack of white chocolate candy coating is the best, though a package of white chocolate chips can work as well)
- Food coloring (optional, but makes it much more festive – green and red are currently $4 for 2 at D’Agostino)
- Colored sugar crystals (optional, but again, nice festive addition)
Literally, all you do is melt the chocolate and coat the pretzels. I usually melt it in the microwave, but you can also do it on your stove top.
Add the food coloring at this point. One by one, dip the pretzels into the chocolate and place them on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper.
Sprinkle with the sugar crystals. Leave out or place in the fridge while the chocolate hardens.
Happy shopping / eating!
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