Clever Girl was happily buzzing with business all season, and our shelves have been in need of constant restocking. Many a gift was wrapped, and I must declare the men of Western Springs to be very good (if a bit last minute) shoppers. Scarves and mittens, cozy PJ's, sweaters, jewelry, books--you name it--we sold it. Santa did a lot of shopping...
Our Clever Girl open house back on December 10th was a great success. Tasty nibbles, cocktails and great Christmas music made for a cozy, candlelit evening that raised lots of money for the Anti-Cruelty Society, and put us all in a festive mood. Thank you to our great customers that braved the coldest night of the year to support the cause.
As they say, all work and no play, well, that's not good. I was happy to sneak out one day to celebrate the December birthday of a dear friend and raise a glass of Christmas cheer. We gathered at Roberto's in Elmhurst, (click here) and were taken care of by the most delightfully charming Italian gentleman...he added to the fun, good food, and good friends. If you haven't been there, get going!
Several trips into the city this season were great outings as well. There are a lot of terrific exhibits at the Art Institute right now, and the Victorian Photo Collage was at the top of my list. (click here) This did NOT disappoint, and if you hurry, you can still see it. I found it very inspiring... Lunch in the Modern Wing at Terzo Piano was an added bonus.
Our annual Clever Girl Christmas party was a ROARING good time (Just imagine all those clever girls gathered together at once!) We laughed, had a marvelous party, and greatly enjoyed exchanging gifts and relaxing together. The Clever crew is simply the best--and I love them all!
At home, our family tree was trimmed with the hundreds of ornaments we've collected over the years, and I think it was the most lovely we've ever had. The tree twinkles in the front window and is simply beautiful. The sweet scent of pine has filled the entire house all season, and I so cherish the ritual of putting it up with my Mom each year. Her whole house is an English Christmas dream come true, and seeing her beautiful decorations can't help but make me happy and ready for Christmas.
As we close out the year, new items are already arriving at the store. We've got fresh deliveries of all sorts of goodies and will continue to bring you the very best a clever girl could want. Thank you all for your support and friendship this past year, and I look forward to seeing everyone in 2010.
Happy New Year!!!
