The days between Thanksgiving and Christmas create some vocals fans or detractors.
Personally, I think of “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music,” as I window shop or get bombarded by TV or Internet ads.
Much from which to choose, whether gifting to yourself or others.
The Malls Are Alive with the sound of shopping
Who couldn’t use a few ideas for Holiday shopping?
My list is a bit esoteric for you.
If I get your creative juices flowing, then I’ve done my job.
1) First, let’s discuss Amazon.
If you do lots of little gift shopping, you could do much worse than to sign up for Amazon Prime.
For an annual fee, all two-day shipping is Free.
And if you live in New York City, that usually means you get what your ordered the next day.
I actually think that someone is watching me in my house when I order.
How can get they it here so fast?
But I also think the same thing about the Chinese restaurant we occasionally order from to deliver to my apartment.
In all seriousness, the convenience of creating “Wish Lists” – and perhaps I’m late to this, gives you an out when your child asks for something new and specific every day- who doesn’t want to create a wish list so they can revisit what they want – and occasionally get something on the list?
2) Next, I’ll make a fun little shill for my sister-in-law’s latest editorial work, The Last Testament, written by David Javerbaum.
For those who enjoy the tongue-in-cheek, it’s teh same Emmy-award-winning humor of the Daily Show.
David Javerbaum continues to deliver from his perch as the amenuensis of God.
The book – I’ve read it- is very, very funny.
3)
I’ll give you a special gift- peace of mind- Please, please call your insurance agent and double check that you have enough coverage on your apartment, whether you rent or own.
I have heard horror stories of clients whose homes were flooded during holiday vacations.
Turns out an upstairs neighbor
forgot to turn off a bathtub faucet.
The entire apartment was flooded- and while the cooperative covered the basic repair of the ceiling, it didn’t cover damages to any art, any of the replacement of kitchen cabinetry, flooring, etc.
He was not covered for this.
Total horror show.
I would be happy to recommend to you my own insurance broker, Wolfson Insurance Brokerage.
Yes, it’s a boring love affair, but a love affair nevertheless.
4) The gift of being in
shape!
I had the honor of running this year’s New York City Marathon (my 10th) with Jack McGowan, a great personal trainer here in Manhattan.
While we didn’t train for the marathon together, his favorite saying always sticks with me- “If it were easy, everyone would do it.”
Something you can apply to your life-
but if you’re thinking about getting in shape now, as another holiday party looms large on your calendar,
shoot
Jack an email.
He’s
terrific.
4.5) While I’m on the topic of being in shape.
My favorite Pilates Instructor Rebecca Lubart of
has set up shop on West 26th street down the block from Martha Stewart.
Her studio is amazing.
Specializing in much more
than Pilates- she works to help you create balance in your body.
If you have never experienced Pilates- she is a wonderful place to start, or as a gift for a loved one.
5) The Gift of a Smile.
Free initial consultation with a great orthodontist!
Love your teeth.
My memory of the orthodontist’s office as a middle-schooler mostly surrounds looking at the signed sports memorabilia on the walls.
A great shot of Joe Dimaggio, a signed copy of Bobby Orr’s Stanley Cup winner.
Don't try this at home
What I never saw was a computer.
Certainly not an iPad or a Mac, showing your progress as the braces do their work.
My friend Dr. Dan Kuncio
has a state-of-the-art practice on the Upper West Side on west 70th street.
He’s convinced to get my kids into his office before they turn ten, just to make sure that he nips any problems in the bud.
All initial consults are free.
I discovered this by accident- but who knew that Dunkin Donuts sells NUMBER DONUTS?!?!?
For those of you who prefer donuts to cake, you can get a fun dozen donuts in your age.
If you’re over 10, you can get half a dozen in one number, and half a dozen in another.
A little fun office birthday treat.
I encourage you to ask SIRI on your iPhone where the nearest Dunkie’s is, and go and check it out.
Of course, if I can advise friends or colleagues on the purchase or sale of an apartment in New York City, I would be offering the gift of expertise, and the enjoyment of a new home or investment.
This time of year I reflect on a year full of excitment- and I remember that what I do helps people create a home for themselves, a place of refuge in the best city in the world.
I am very thankful for my clients, family and friends.
Happy Holidays!