Peggy Chirico ~ Hartford & Tolland County Real Estate Blog

When one of the agents in my office requested toy donations for families in need in my town, I gladly agreed to donate something. I had asked the other agent what kind of toys would be appreciated, and she said that they had received a lot of toys for preschoolers and younger children but not much for children over the age of 9 or 10.

Truth be known, I have not bought toys in at least ten years, but I blithely set off for Toys-R-Us to find a couple of toys that would be enjoyed by someone.

Wow! Was I out of my element!  After wandering the store for an hour, watching what other people were putting in their carts, I left empty-handed feeling like a deer in headlights.  I admit that I wanted to pick a perfect toy (for an unknown child at that) and I was paralyzed by over-analysis.  Did this toy have small pieces that a sibling might choke on, did it promote violence, would the parents approve, would the child like it, was it dorky, etc., etc.?

So, of course, I am going to turn to all of you experts for advice:

  What are some of your best toy ideas?

I need to go back out there soon so I would REALLY appreciate your suggestions.

There is still plenty of time to donate.  The need is great, and each of us can make a difference and make this holiday season special for someone in need.  Just about any school, police department, fire department, mall, toy store, grocery store, or church accepts donations.

Susan Gerr of Birch Mountain Pottery is hosting her 24th annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 5, 2009 from 10:00 to 4:00 p.m.  Her studio is stocked with beautiful handmade pottery at great prices--what a great opportunity to find some one-of-a-kind gifts for the holiday season!

Susan creates functional and decorative pottery, such serving bowls, sushi sets, mugs, casserole dishes, chip/dip sets, teapots, garlic roasters, and other lovely pieces.  The mug shown at the right is the mug I use every morning--it holds a large amount of coffee, is beautiful to hold, and is the perfect way to start my day!

The Holiday Open Studio on Saturday offers refreshments (always wonderful) and live music by Steve Lambert from 11:00 to 1:00 and by Kathy Lepak from 1:00 to 2:00. 

Visit her website to see some of her beautiful work, or better yet stop in on Saturday for some holiday festivities and shopping.

Birch Mountain Pottery is located just off Exit 68, I-84 at 223 Merrow Road, Tolland, CT.  The phone number is 860-875-0149.

Happy Holidays!

Doing anything on December 16, 2009? If not, you might want to check out "An Accoustic Christmas Special" at The Main Pub in Manchester, CT. 

Emmet Gemme, an accountant by day, will be showcasing his alter-ego, playing and singing the music that everyone loves.  He is a fantastic musician, singer, and entertainer, and it is sure to be a fun evening.  With tax season gearing up (giving him little time for the fun stuff), this is sure to be a festive and fun evening for him and the audience.  You won't be disappointed!

Emmet will be playing from 9:30 to 10:30, with other entertainment throughout the evening.  The Main Pub offers a casual dining menu and beverages (including an extensive beer list) in a cozy atmosphere, so you can eat before or during the show.  The large music room offers plenty of seating and great views of the stage. 

If you are looking to get into the holiday spirit, stop in at The Main Pub on December 16 for "An Accoustic Christmas Special!" 

Next Thursday is the 73rd Running of the Manchester Road Race, and there is still time to sign up.  If you are one of the few who have never run in it or cheered others on, you must check out this local extravangaza. 

It began in 1927 and continued until 1934, when it was halted, most likely due to effects of the Great Depression and World War II.  In 1945, dedicated runners, local businesses, and civic leaders reinstituted this annual event and it has continued ever since.

Runners, walkers, and spectators are drawn to the 4.748 mile course that runs through the center of Manchester, from Main Street to Charter Oak, Highland, Porter, and East Center Street.  World-class runners compete for top prizes, less famous runners try to improve their times, and everyone else enjoys the cheering of the estimated 15,000-20,000 spectators that line the entire course.  With music along the way, silly runners in costumes, and a bouyant atmosphere throughout, it is sure to become your tradition, if it is not already.

Last year, over 12,000 runners registered, with over 10,000 people officially finishing.  The proceeds of the event support Muscular Dystrophy research and local charities.

If you want to see the spirit of Manchester and support good causes, sign up for the race.  It's also a great way to get rid of a few calories early in the day so you can enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner without guilt.

For more information, check out the official website:  http://www.manchesterroadrace.com/

For pictures that capture the true essence of the race for many people, visit http://connecticut.metromix.com/events/photogallery/manchester-road-race-2008/800066/content