Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm during the morning, then some lingering showers still possible this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 71F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%..
Tonight
Mostly cloudy with showers and a few thunderstorms. Low 59F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Just like you, I am making my list and checking it twice, seeing who has been naughty and nice. After chatting with Santa, I agreed to help the elves and give a few suggestions for gifts for gardeners.
Keeping it local, consider a one-of-a-kind handmade gift from Blenko Glass Company in Milton, West Virginia. A few of my favorites include the Daisy Bowl, Water Pitcher, and Square Bud Vase. Don’t limit yourself to just these; there are handblown ornaments, large vases, and sun catchers. Visit for other ideas and to place orders.
As a talented gardener, local artist Sharon Harms does not have to look far for inspiration. Her watercolors highlight the flowers, insects and other visitors to her lovely garden. A framed print or a bundle of note cards will be a treasured gift and are available at the WV Marketplace in Capitol Market in ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä.
While you are there, go ahead and create a WV basket of goodies, including J.Q. Dickinson Salt, handmade jellies and spice mixes. Don’t forget to walk down the hall and add a box of Holl’s Chocolate. Trust me, your gardening friends will love the treats.
Speaking of yummy treats, maybe Ina Garten’s new book “Be Ready When Luck Happens: A Memoir†or “A Gentle Plea for Chaos†by Mirabel Osler is something to curl up with during the winter months.
A stroll through ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä’s Art Emporium is part of my Christmas shopping ritual. I never leave empty-handed. Traci and her team will help you navigate the treasures that fill her store.
I’m a new customer of Echo-Lit and am happy with the gifts I found there. Note cards, calendars, and fun prints are always appreciated and easy to mail. The store is located on ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä’s West Side; you can also visit .
Garden chimes come in many shapes and sizes. One of my favorites is a bit old school in its appearance of long metal tubes, but the sound is anything but boring. Look for Corinthian Bells by Wind River to give these chimes to your favorite gardener. Look for these at Green’s Feed and Seed in ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä.
For my birthday, I received the most beautiful birdhouse. It is hand-crafted and painted in bright colors, and I can’t wait to hang it in the spring. Another gift I have seen in gardens is small, shallow bowls on stakes. Often, the design of flower petals or leaves is just the right size to hold a drink of water for birds or butterflies. They are tiny works of art that bring joy to a thirsty pollinator when placed throughout the garden.
These are all very nice gifts, but here’s the thing about gardeners: We like a flower pot filled with lip balm, hand lotion and sunscreen. Throw in a pair of garden gloves (because we can never have too many) and a bundle of twine, and we will be over the moon.
Invite me to visit and don’t be surprised if I bring a start from my garden or houseplants. Gifts can range from high dollar to drugstore finds. It really isn’t the cost; it’s the thought — and knowing that you thought of your person during the busy holiday season. You shopped with intention, love, or friendship.
With the holiday season well underway, I am reminding myself and each of you to embrace the moments of twinkling lights and colorful decorations and remember that although there is much to do, there is also so very much to enjoy.
Jane Powell is a longtime West Virginia University Extension Service master gardener through the Kanawha County chapter. She is a member of the ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä Municipal Beautification Commission and the city Tree Board. She is also the communications director for a community foundation and a volunteer with several nonprofits. Find her blog, “Gardening in Pearls,” at . Contact her at janeellenpowell@aol.com.
