I'm Dreaming of a China-Free Christmas!

I first freaked out when I found out that Willie the Labradoodle's premium dog food was made by the same company in China whose canned pet food was tainted and killing family pets. Then A couple of weeks ago, Katerina Gasset wrote a post about Chinese drywall that got me to thinking. Why do we buy their stuff? Well, for one thing, it's pretty hard to avoid, whether you're shopping in Target, Whole Foods or Bloomingdales.

So this year, I am looking for shopping venues where I can find Christmas gifts that were made, well, not in China.

I'm starting off at my friend, Annie Groer's, holiday sale. She is clearing out a bunch of stuff. And a lot of it is pretty amazing.

Need some high quality designer costume jewelry? This is a great place to start. I walked out with some Chanel earrings on my lobes. But wait! This is supposed to be Christmas shopping for the people I love - not accumulating more stuff for me!

And if you're into poodles, there are some of those. But no Labradoodles. Oh well!

If you are in the market for pins or earrings with this little beast, there is a lot to choose from.

If you're shopping for your guy, there are some great cuff links,at least if he has any shirts that need cuff links.

Moving on from jewelry -

There are also fashion items that might fit someone smaller than I am. Especially in the feet department.

And for that person who has everything? The item to the left is probably not something they already own.

Nor this highly sophisticated collector's item - a set of rare vases!

How about some JFK memorabilia for your favorite political junkie?

Now, I am just scratching the surface here. Items include an alligator, mink jacket, some amazing articles of clothing, and much more.

To view these items, you need an appointment. Please email me at housepat@mac.com, and I will help you set one up. Now I'm off to check out a cute place in Georgetown! More later.