December ABODE: Your Stuff

 My brother just got his first solo apartment and lacks some of the basics—like a broom and mop. If that special someone on your holiday list is a bit further along on the householding journey, she’d probably appreciate gifts of a more refined nature. Delight friends and relatives alike with these gems from local shops.—Erika Howsare

Little wings Child-sized "Swan" chair from And George ($425, 3465 Ivy Rd., 244-2800); Under ware Paper placemats from Créme de la Créme ($1, Barracks Road Shopping Center, 296-7018); That whistle blowing Tea kettle from The Happy Cook ($50, Barracks Road Shopping Center, 977-2665); On the fringe Cotton throw from Patina Antiques ($89, 2171 Ivy Rd., 244-3222); Say when Champagne glasses from The Curious Orange Store ($72, set of 6, 2845 Ivy Rd., 984-1042); Bright glow Candle holder from Ivy Nursery ($40.95, 570 Broomley Rd., 295-1183); Back and forth Rocking chair from Blue Ridge Eco Shop ($295, 313 E. Main St., 296-0042); Press here French press from The Seasonal Cook ($49.95, 416 W. Main St., Main Street Market, 295-9355); Terry Christmas Bath towels from Yves Delorme ($33, 311 E. Main St., Downtown Mall, 979-4111); Perfectly clear Pitcher from Artifacts ($42, 111 Fourth St. NE, 295-9500); Hip to be square Alarm clock from Roxie Daisy ($54.95, 101 E. Water St., 202-8133).