Shop Talk : Childhood valentines
By Katryn Yerdon
Published: February 4, 2010
February brings us a bright spot in the middle of a cold month -Valentine's Day - a reason to celebrate those you love, whether with a card of thanks or a diamond pendant. I personally enjoy the flowers and extra time to spend with my honey. This is, however, not just a holiday for couples, but for family, friends, and children. Fond memories of choosing the right box of valentine cards, filling them out with your best penmanship and handing them out to your class with a smile of pure enjoyment. Nowadays there are even more options for kids to get excited about and lift their spirits.
Riley's Reads in Vineyard Haven is a child's fantasy for the special and unique valentines. The Make your Own Thumb Print note card set ($16.95) and the fold it stationary that you can put stickers on offer not only unique classroom valentine options, but a fun activity as well. Moms and Dads can also find some great little gifts to let their special kids know they are loved. There are Smelly Pens ($4) with heart candy or chocolate scents, Bead Tubes ($2) to make their own necklace, heart-shaped watches, and a collection of Shaines make your own heart key chains. Tania says the most popular gift is the Baby Board Books with valentine themes, and grandmas love the valentine-hued finger puppets.
Just down the street at Mardell's you'll find a large assortment of Hallmark cards and Russell Stover Chocolate boxes. If you purchase three Hallmark cards, you'll receive the cutest soft Love Pal free. The large assortment of 32 Kids Valentine boxes ($2.49) range from Disney to Barbie and puppies to Spiderman. Russell Stover has gone above and beyond this year with their heart-shaped chocolate boxes. They have one covered in denim and another For My Man, which is covered with imitation corrugated metal. Kid's sizes start at $1.69 and the rest start at $3.99. Looking for Island made sweets? The boxes of Robin's Homemade Fudge of M.V. could fit the bill. Finally, if you have a gift that needs some appropriate wrapping, rolls of hearts gift-wrap can be yours for $2.99.
Leslie's Drug Store, also in V.H., is getting in the spirit with their selection of boxed chocolates and adorable stuffed animals.
Rosebuds, in Oak Bluffs, assails your senses with Valentines before you walk in the door. Among their more unique offerings is the Candy Making Valentine's Kit ($9.99) that has more than 50 pieces, and the Heart Candy Necklace Kit ($3.99). Both promise to be an afternoon of fun. Gifts range from the Light Up Catch a Heart (3.99) to the assorted baskets that include candy, balloons, stuffed animals and unique ideas. My favorite was the little Gardeners Pail, with tools, for $18.99. For your girls the Kiss Me Dog or cheetah purse ($8.99) could be a winning gift with the stuffed animal peaking its head out of the top.
And at Waterside Market, check out the valentine-themed rubber duckies for girls and boys.
Some other great stores offering kid's Valentine's are Rainy Day in Vineyard Haven, Conroy Apothecary in West Tisbury, Granite and Stop & Shop Pharmacy in Edgartown.
Now for some help. Next week we will be covering Valentine's Day for adults. I would love your ideas or suggestions. If you know of a unique gift idea or are personally wishing for a special gift from here on the Island, write me and I'll do my best to get it in. Remember to include your name, the stores name and the item. Thanks a million.
