I came across this DVD the other night while in Macy's. As you can probably tell from the title, it's based on the famous letter that was written to the New York's Sun editorial desk in 1895, by then 8 year old Virginia O'Hanlon (1889-1971), asking whether or not Santa Claus exists. The animation really is quite amazing. It would be a nice addition to the classics (Rudolph, Frosty, etc) that I spoke about last year, here.

If you're over the age of twenty-five, surely you'll remember these holiday tales. Who doesn't remember their first time seeing  Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer?

All of the classics are here: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town, Frosty the Snowman, Frosty Returns, Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, Little Drummer Boy, Cricket on the Hearth. Do they still even show these on television anymore? Well, just in case they decide to play Harry Potter instead, I'm glad that I picked up my boxed-set a couple of years back. (approx. $20).

Seeing as  how my date, on last evening, only went "okay" at best, there is absolutely no reason that I should be posting about Engagement Rings. None! But, before going to see Secretariat we had  gone into Barnes & Noble where I came across a magazine ad for CARAT* Jewelry Company. The reason why I'm so very excited about this discovery is that it could very well aid me one day in an idea that I've been fostering for years. Please feel free to use it for yourself, if you'd like.

For years, I've jokingly (?) said that, in lieu of an actual diamond, I will be purchasing a Cubic Zirconia for an engagement ring. Without question, I will be very upfront with my fiancee and let her know about my intentions. I will also let her know that if we make it to our fifth anniversary, then I'll gladly replace the CZ with a real stone. Possibly even adding an additional carat or two as an added bonus for her patience. 

While I consider myself an optimist, I'm also a realist. With the divorce rate being what it is today, the thought of losing a wife AND a ring equal to three month's salary (per DeBeers) leaves me a little skittish. Of course, I have considered that she may feel that things aren't working out, not let me know this, and then choose to stay 5 years and a day -you know, just until the big upgrade takes place, but I'm willing to take that chance. 

During these time, more than ever, should marriage still be honestly looked at as a long-term investment (of the heart) or until debt do us part?

...though it probably shouldn't be on a first date. Too often, men buy roses (especially red) because we've been taught that they are the perfect flowers for a lady. Well, this is only true if it is her favorite flower, which you probably wouldn't know on a first date. If you must give roses, then colors like yellow or pink would be safer choices. I did floral deliveries in high school for a local florist, so one thing that I've since come to enjoy is going to the Los Angeles Flower Market in downtown. Since, I have a date this weekend I got up early and was at the mart around 8:30.

With such an intoxicating scent and fullness of bloom, Casablanca Lillies are incontrovertibly my favorite flower to give to someone special, as well as, to myself. (Well, to my apartment, actually.)

And Calla Lillies would have to be my first runner-up. ("...in the event that the winner, Casablanca Lillies, can't perform their duty, then the first runner-up...") This potted version is perfect for adding a life to a space - especially the bathroom - and requires very little maintenance, making it perfect for someone, with two brown thumbs, like myself.

Gerbera Daisy seem to last forever and a day. Whenever I've given these, I've only needed to add a large grosgrain or satin ribbon (NO cellophane, please) in a contrasting color and I'm finished. Also, since they are not really such "serious" flowers like a Rose, they are always a safe, non-threatening  option. If the lady in your life does indeed like flowers, then I suggest finding out exactly which type/color of flower is truly her favorite and stick with it. Trust me, getting it right will makes a difference.

LOS ANGELES FLOWER DISTRICT
766 Wall Street
Los Angeles, Ca  90014-2316
213-627-2482

HOURS:
Mon, Wed, Fri  8am-Noon   ($2 Admission)
Tue & Thur  6am-Noon   ($2 Admission)
Saturday  6am-Noon   ($1 Admission)