The Artful Shopper Explores Downtown Racine

Shopping. We all do it, some of us better than others. One of the tricks is going to the right stores: not the same-old, same-old. And being open to new things.

Are you the person who's always giving great gifts? Well, the doctor is in! RacinePost to the rescue, as it were. We'll scour local shops for purchases you won't find everywhere.

This week we'll help those of you traveling for the holidays. You want to bring a special hostess gift, right? Not the usual bottle of wine (do your hosts even drink wine?) or flowers that may or may not be welcome. Not that we have anything against either of those, but this year you want something more original. Well, try these:

How about these beautiful butterflies, mounted in glass so both sides are visible and the differences apparent? Here, 14 butterflies, for $78. Dover Flag and Map.

Frasier Fir Home Fragrance, from Thymes: crisp Siberian Fir needles mixed
with warm cedar and sandalwood; $10-$67, at Artistry Furniture.

Inis is an imported Irish perfume, with a light refreshing fragrance, from Molly MaGruder. Fragrance, $32; lotion $19.50.

Will O’the Wisp glittering ornaments are hand-made by Patricia Lee Raichert. Each comes with its own stand, $45. Available at Monfort's Fine Arts Gallery.

Finally, this comfort-food reminder of a meal we're always thankful for -- PB&J -- at a time when, hopefully, we're about to receive a more elaborate repast. $20, Copacetic.