For the ladies on your list...

Okay men, listen up. You just can’t go wrong with the following advice I am about to divulge. Perfect for stocking stuffers, here are a few of my favourite things:

• Maybelline “Sky High Curves” Mascara. It really works. Long, curled lashes every time. No clumps, No smears. I use Very Black, but anything brown or black would be lovely on anyone. I avoid the Waterproof variety. Too hard to remove. About $8 a tube.
  
• OPI “Nail Envy”. Clear nail laquer to protect and harden nails. About $15.
  
• Fleece Socks. Cozy and warm. Look for them at quality sporting stores. Common brands include Acorn and Teva. No cuffs, no grippy spots on soles. Fun colours available. About $20 a pair. Shop by shoe size.
• The Body Shop, Coconut Foaming Bath. Let her escape to the Caribbean if only for a few minutes. Amazing fragrance. $16 for 400ml.
• Paula’s Choice Skincare. Available online at www.cosmeticscop.com. Her book “Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me” is also a fail-proof gift. Available in bookstores. Amazing knowledge, research, tests and information about buying skin care.

And if you’re shopping for a Mom with kids at home, the best possible gift you can give her is time – time to herself to do things she enjoys. A minimum of two hours of uninterrupted time to nap, do some crafts, polish her nails, shop... Because if Mom’s not taken care of, nobody else is.
Happy Holidays, Gentlemen.