Six Minute Style Visits China Woods Missoula

For years, I’ve driven by China Woods with merely a passing interest. Yesterday, I heard one of their ads on the radio and decided – on a whim – to pop in. And so glad I did. What a cool little (okay, unexpectedly large) shop. Furniture, mirrors, wall hangings and all matter of knickknack, paddy whack from points Far East. They’re having a cool trunk show this weekend with a nice selection of wool jewelry, hats, ornaments and other accessories. I picked up a few things that should make for fun and unique stocking stuffers. And how we love “unique” at Six Minute Style! Check it out at 716 Dickens St, Missoula.

Holiday Gift Ideas

I stopped at the Book Exchange this morning to grab a quick latte while my son was at the Y for his weekly swim lesson. Went in thinking "coffee," but came out thinking how many great gift ideas they have on hand. Tons of Montana-themed books (fly-fishing, hunting, Glacier National Park, grizzlies) as well as cookbooks, puzzles, 2010 calendars, kids books and activity kits, advent calendars and so much more. We love the idea of supporting local businesses, so will be returning soon with a list (not to mention time - those swim lessons are only 30 minutes!). So, if you're on the hunt for stocking stuffers, Secret Santa or Hanukkah gifts, swing by the Book Exchange.

And don't forget the coffee/tea lover. You can grab a Liquid Planet gift card while on site as well. Happy local shopping.

NW-Themed Wine Dinner at Blue Canyon

We're thinking about attending the upcoming wine dinner at Blue Canyon (next to the Hilton) on Wednesday, December 2 at 6:30 p.m. The theme is "Wines of the Pacific Northwest."  Who doesn't love a great NW wine? Plus, we got a sneak peak of the menu (still in draft form, but more than enough to make us drool) and are loving the idea of sipping while savoring Seared Sea Scallops, Grilled Hutterite Duck Breast (Love, Love, Love Duck!) and Braised Beef Short Ribs. Did we mention the Wild Mushroom  Goat Cheese Bread Pudding or the Prosciutto Wrapped Alaskan King Crab Cake? And how about the White Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Bombe for dessert? Not sure which is more exciting - the great wines or the to-die-for foods. Perhaps the mix of the two will make for the perfect evening. If you're interested in attending, call the restaurant at 541-2583 ASAP to book your seat. Happy Feasting.

Good Times at the Good Food Store/Turkey Shopping

Just picked up a fresh turkey at the Good Food Store. If you're thinking about going today, do! Live entertainment, free coffee and pumpkin bread, and lots of familiar faces. It's a fun shopping experience there this morning. Didn't see one frown in the crowd. Guess the line was around the building at 7 a.m. this morning. Eek! So glad I waited until 8:30. No line at all, but still fairly crowded. I asked if they were well-stocked with the Thanksgiving bird and they said, "yes, plenty to be had." Happy shopping. Now go. 

Ring in the Holidays with the Missoula Symphony

The Missoula Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops concert is one of our favorite ways to ring in the holiday season. This year's show should be better than ever with the addition of the Chorale and Missoula Children's Chorus (which means nearly 200 performers packed onto the University Theatre stage belting out songs of the season via voice and instrument). Rumor has it that Santa will be stopping by with candy and cheer for the kids. Show times are Saturday, December 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 6 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are going fast, so get 'em now at 721-3194 or online at www.missoulasymphony.org.