For Me?

Shopping for that perfect gift is no fun. At least for me. I love finding it, but tracking them down can be frustrating and exhausting. A day trolling the antiques mall with an extremely limited budget can leave me feeling enervated and in need of a pick-me-up.

Here are three holiday CD’s and a book to help you unwind. The choice of a post (or mid) shopping solo expresso, flute of champagne or bracing brandy and soda is up to you.

I’ve been a fan of Mr. Connick Jr.’s since he helped usher back the big band sound with his soundtrack to “When Harry Met Sally.” He is a fantastic pianist and a fun crooner. In short, he rarely disappoints. Easy music for a little light listening.

Mr. Tony Bennett… one of the last of the greats proves why he has such staying power. And you get the Count Basie Orchestra to boot. That makes for a very merry, merry.

The older I get, the more I begin to crave soothing, cerebral classical music. Mr. Yo Yo Ma has collaborated with a diverse cast to bring you an album that recreates a musical family gathering on a magical Christmas Eve. (And is there anything that the man can’t do?) The bonus DVD is a treat, too. (And you can catch a great interview on Performance Today.)

Finally, those who followed my trials and tribulations with painting the library, will be pleased to know that I have found peace in the form of Farrow & Ball’s “Paint and Color in Decoration.” Never again will I wonder about choosing appropriate colours. I am, however, still looking for the appropriate mansion in which to use them.

Maybe a hot chocolate with a bit of peppermint schnapps… .