JNOW's favorite things

JNOW's favorite things

Sometimes, we're silly.

Jamaal Porter/Massive Motives

Raindrops on roses

And whiskers on kittens

Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens

Brown paper packages tied up with strings

These are a few of my favorite things

Shout out to Julie Andrews for sharing, and the Johnston Now staff has decided to get in on the fun by offering up a few items we enjoy during the holiday season. We're going to chat about gift giving, gift receiving and even gift buying.

We'll also share a bit about what makes the holidays special. The panel includes Randy Capps (RC), Shanna Capps (SC), Irene Brooks (IB), Tuesdaie Williams (TW) and Katie Crowder (KC).

The art of gift giving

TW: “When I like to buy gifts, I love shopping online! I find that shopping online is so convenient. When I want to buy something for someone, I can easily just go online and look for an item. I find it easier to compare prices and buy the best deals that way too.”

KC: “I am a list maker. I typically start creating my list in October and start purchasing gifts in November. My list is very deliberate. I tend to lean towards the side of practical gifts or experiences. It is my goal to have everything finished by December 15.”

RC: “One of the benefits to being married for almost 20 years is that my lovely wife buys almost all of the gifts. When pressed into action, Amazon is my go-to source. Anytime I can avoid wandering around in a sea of Christmas shoppers, I'm here for that.”

IB: “I love it when people tell me what they would like instead of me trying to guess what they want. I prefer to buy local, but tend to wait until the last minute. I like to buy things that are going to mean something to that person and makes that person know that I have thought about what they need or want.”

SC: “I actually struggle when buying gifts. I truly want to find the perfect gift for the recipient, which means I overthink it and end up racing against the clock at the last minute. I shop locally and hand pick most of the gifts I buy. The people in my life are so special and they deserve a thoughtful gift.”

The joy of gift receiving

TW: “I enjoy getting things like mugs, photo frames, makeup, jewelry, purses and other clothing accessories. However, my favorite thing I love receiving would be stuffed animals, teddy bears and things like that. It’s completely childish, but when I receive a gift like that, they stay with me for a very long time and it becomes almost a way to always remember that person who gave it to me.”

KC: “I do not like being surprised. I create a list ranging in price and I will share that list with everyone. Cash and wine are always appreciated.”

RC: “I don’t mind surprises, but cash does make a great gift. I’m team gift card. Toss me a VISA and I’ll figure out how to put it to use.”

IB: “Just the fact that someone thought about me, is gift enough, so I am not choosy about what I receive. However, I love getting books, chocolate and anything motivational.”

SC: “To me, experiences are the best gifts! I don’t have collectables or trinkets at home, so I enjoy gifts that I can use. Tickets to a play or concert, beauty treatments like a massage and weekend getaways were my favorite gifts. I also enjoy handmade items, such as the ornaments my niece, Gracie, makes me every year. They are priceless and very special to me.”

The holiday season

TW: “Most people celebrate holidays such as Christmas for religious reasons, however my favorite things about the holidays has always been the traditional aspects of it and being able to partake in the customs — like putting up and seeing a pretty Christmas tree and Christmas decorations everywhere because that’s just what’s done every year around that time. Another favorite thing of mine is being around family and friends and creating long-lasting memories together.”

RC: “Katie declined to answer this question. She’s more into fall and Halloween, I guess. I’m late to the Christmas-loving party, but I’m on board now. I like to have the tree up in late October or early November. It makes me feel good to see the tree twirling around in the living room. And if putting up some decorations is all it takes to be happy, then I say do it.”

IB: “I love that this time of year tends to bring out the best part of people. People tend to be a little bit nicer, kinder and more generous to strangers and that makes me happy. After all, life is still going on for some people and many are still struggling, so when we can open up our hearts to make someone’s life a little nicer for a time, it makes the true spirit of the holiday come to life for me. There is a special air of hope and love in the lights and glitter of the holiday that makes me happy. Also, Santa and the magic he brings is also one of my favorite things!”

SC: “Christmas is my favorite holiday, and I love everything about it! Twinkling lights provide a beautiful ambiance to any room. People are a bit more kind around the holidays. I keep Christmas carols playing on the radio for months.”

Katie's favorite things

Double Sided Porch Plank

Location: Hammer & Stain inside of The Market at Three Little Birds, Clayton

Cost: $75

Overview: This is both an experience and you get a piece of home decor. Hammer & Stain does all of the hard work of measuring and cutting the projects and leaves the fun of painting. You are able to completely customize the project with colors that work best for you. Perfect for anyone who loves a DIY project or unique home decor.

Wine (Blanc de Bois is my personal favorite)

Location: Hinnant Vineyard, Pine Level

Cost: $8-20

Overview: Because who doesn’t love wine? A bottle of wine makes a great hostess gift or a gift for a coworker. Along with the tasting room, there is a gift shop that has great wine related accessories.

Springhill Outfitters gift certificate

Location: Springhill Outfitters, Selma

Overview: When it comes to outdoor things, I don’t know what to purchase because I don’t enjoy the outdoor things, so I find it is best to allow the outdoorsy type to pick out their own gift.

Rudy Theatre season tickets

Location: Rudy Theatre, Selma

Cost: $70

Overview: The season ticket includes a ticket for each of the four major shows the Rudy produces. A great gift for anyone who loves live entertainment.

Scout bag

Location: Dewayne’s, Selma

Cost: $20-60 depending on size and style

Overview: Scout bags are durable and versatile and come in cute patterns. Scout bags come in a variety of sizes from make-up bags to work totes. For anyone who is looking for a bag that is durable and cute.

Irene's favorite things

90-minute Massage

Location: Quintessential Wellness, Clayton

Cost: $90

Overview: One of my favorite things to give my favorite people is experiences, especially because we are so busy in today’s society. And if your favorite people are anything like my favorite people, they are super busy or tend to do things for the people in their lives instead of themselves. Giving someone a massage allows them to unwind and unplug. The massage therapists at Quintessential are professional and will cater their massage to what the client needs — from relaxing and soothing to a deep tissue/sports massage. I like to feel pampered, so I enjoy having a pampered massage from Eric, Christine or Vanessa to help work out any kinks or aches and pains. This gift is great for the mom, dad, special teacher or client that is selfless, busy and rarely takes time for themselves. A great massage will always say, “I am thinking of you and your well being, and I care.”

Charles Garnier Bracelet

Location: Evans Jewelers

Cost: $100-300

Overview: This bracelet is made in Paris and comes in gold, silver and a variety of other finishes. It is trendy, but classic, so she will cherish it for years to come. It can be worn stacked or alone. This is the type of bracelet that can elevate an outfit, dress it up and give it that extra bling that you need. This bracelet will not go out of style and will be enjoyed for years to come. The recipient of this bracelet will not only love it and cherish it, but will find that she will be able to wear it on many occasions. This is one of those gifts where you might want to say “one for you and one for me.”

Cooking class

Location: Chefella’s at the Dupree House, Smithfield

Cost: $100-425

Overview: I love giving experiences especially for the person who has everything or is someone who you cherish quality time with. You can give them a single sushi rolling class or you can book a class for a group of four for a gift for your girlfriends who you haven’t had time to be with in a while. You can book a baking class with your child or gift a class for the newlyweds. I love this gift because it is truly unique and a gift that keeps on giving for years to come. Who knows what type of gifts the recipient will uncover?

Framed Pictures

Location: The Market At Three Little Birds, Clayton

Cost: Vary By Size

Overview: Walking into this shop is like a feast on the eyes! Everywhere you look there is painted furniture, clothing, jewelry, but my favorite thing are the framed sayings. For instance, I have one that simply says, “HOME.” I have it put up so that I can see it as soon as I walk in the door. I always take a deep breath and sigh because it’s nice to know that I am home. The signs here speak to a person personally and you can pick up a framed sign that your recipient will appreciate and will feel as if you took the time to get them a gift that is just for them.

Everybody’s Favorite Hoop Earrings, by Sheila Fajl

Location: Selma Jewelry, Smithfield

Cost: $50-73

Overview: There is something special about a hoop earring. It’s simple, yet powerful. You can dress it up, or down — it can add some sophistication to a simple outfit and it can turn a lazy-day casual outfit into a put together look easily. I bought two pair. I went to buy a pair for my mom because they were simple, elegant and timeless; and I ended up with a pair for myself. For mom, I purchased the petite pair in shiny gold — it comes in brushed gold as well. For me, I got the small, but it also comes in large for the adventurous lady. The weight is perfect, it feels comfortable on my ears and I can wear them all day without feeling like I need to yank my earring out of my ear. For someone who lives on the phone all day, that says a lot! When I saw that this was called “Everybody’s Favorite Hoop Earrings,” I kind of chuckled, and wrote it off to just good marketing, but once I had a pair, I realized that they are right — once you put these on, they will be your go to pair of earrings when you need special things to happen to your outfit.

Randy's favorite things

GameStop gift card

Location: Smithfield or Garner

Cost: How generous are you feeling?

Overview: Some adults grow out of video gaming, but it hasn't happened to me. I know buying video game stuff as a non-gamer can be intimidating, but the folks at the Smithfield GameStop are really cool and will answer all of your questions. However, if you want to take the guesswork out of PS4 and Xbox One shopping, just spring for the gift card.

Oak City Collection

Location: Third Street, Smithfield

Cost: varies

Overview: Jud and Suzanne always have the coolest stuff. You can pick up a specialty coffee, a cool new mug or one of their awesome shirts. They also have etched glass work, Christmas ornaments and much, much more.

Carolina Mudcats tickets

Location: Five County Stadium

Cost: varies

Overview: The Mudcats are a high Class A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, and as a frequent visitor to Five County Stadium, I can say it's always a good time. You can purchase full-, half- or quarter-season packages — or break it down even more with a five-game pack which starts at $65 for two people. Visit www. carolinamudcats.com for more information.

iTunes gift card

Location: Almost everywhere

Cost: Again, a question of generosity

Overview: I said I like games, right? Well, I play them on the phone, too. Every now and then, a little money can speed your in-game progress. I mean, I guess you could buy a movie or some music, too.

Day pass

Location: My house

Cost: Only time

Overview: Sometimes, I'd like a day free of adulting. One where I'm not shuttling a teenager around, washing clothes or otherwise participating in society. I'll take a certificate that allows me to hold down a recliner all day and offers me no-stress meals promptly at noon and 6 p.m. You can't buy these in stores, but if you could, I'd want a pile of them.

Shanna's favorite things

Eyelash Extensions

Location: Julie Anne's Salon & Spa, Smithfield

Cost: $125 and up

Overview: Gift certificates for beauty treatments is a fabulous way to try out different products. I tried out eyelash extensions by Jeri Jordan Parnell of Julie Anne's Salon in Smithfield. The application took about an hour and a half, but it was absolutely painless. In fact, I took a nap and woke up with beautiful lashes. No more mascara needed! This gift is perfect for the woman who likes to look her best but hates spending time applying a full face of makeup. She can choose from various eyelash looks ranging from subtle to dramatic.

Magnolia Home Decor

Location: Pine Level Furniture

Cost: varies

Overview: When I think of home décor, Joanna Gaines immediately comes to mind. And, you can find her furniture and décor collection just a short drive away in Pine Level. The dining room sets are gorgeous but may be hard to fit on Santa's sleigh. However, there are wooden signs, baskets, lamps and many other decorative pieces that make thoughtful and beautiful Christmas gifts.

Unique gifts

Location: Ogi Designs, Four Oaks

Cost: varies

Overview: There are so many gift ideas in this adorable store that you can truly find something for everyone on your list. For little ones, they offer the softest teddy bears you'll find. Parents will enjoy the gourmet food items such as jams and fudge. You can buy handmade jewelry for the lady in your life or metal sculptures for the art lover. I consider Ogi Designs my “go to” for cute gifts that you won't find in big box stores.

Soy Candles

Location: Salvaged Heirlooms, Benson

Cost: $12 Overview: These soy candles are all handmade in Salvaged Heirlooms’ downtown shop and hand poured to perfection. The candles come in amazing scents like “Milk+Cookies” and “Sweet Tea.” Each candle is made from 100 percent all natural soy wax and cotton core wicks, which makes them long-lasting.

Stackable designer rings

Location: Evans Jewelers, Smithfield

Overview: There's something romantic about these dainty, stackable rings. They are so versatile and can be worn with jeans or a cocktail dress. Each ring has character, and I think it's beautiful to stack the different metals together to create your own personal style. Every woman likes sparkly jewelry, so this is perfect for ladies of all ages.