Hot Picks for Chilly Climes

By Susan Phelan

SO TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD…
Created by two Canadians, Therapy - The Game has been an international success selling more than two million copies worldwide, that is, outside of Canada. Ironically, the board game which has enjoyed tremendous popularity in several countries and has made such auspicious appearances as popping up on a well-known game show and a Woody Allen movie, has never been available in the land of its origin…until now. After nearly twenty years, a Quebec-based toy and game distributor is bringing the fun-filled multi-player game that lets people test their insight into others back to its native soil. Touting to offer "the most fun anyone can have on a couch" one thing is for certain: this kind of therapy will be a whole lot cheaper than the clinical version. Available at Indigo and Chapters, and Science Shop.

NEW GARAGE
With over 130 stores, Garage is the #1 National brand among adolescents in Canada so why not celebrate with a new look that addresses the eclectic taste of today's teen? The newly-renovated Garage store design was inspired by the concept of a teenager's playfulness, love for life and carefree spirit, all of which can be described in one word: random. Like her personality, the décor is a mix of colourful fixtures, eclectic themes and a variety of moods that when combined, create an incredibly rich and magical ambience. This attitude carried on throughout the entire space is especially evident in the individually decorated change rooms that range from light, floral pastels to frisky animal prints. It may not exactly be your cup of tea but we bet your daughter or niece will totally flip over it!

WHAT WOMEN WANT
And no, we're not talking about Mel Gibson here, although arguably there are those… never mind. What Women Want is actually the name of a charming little shop in Lendrum that offers a good assortment of accessories like purses and scarves and exclusive bling lines such as Desert Diamonds - a collection of beautifully handcrafted jewelry set in 18kt gold; and Purely Pearls - a unique series of contemporary pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

FOR YOUR HONEY BUNNY
This Valentine's Day, go animalistic with a gift from Build-A-Bear Workshop Inc. - the only global company that offers an interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience. With a wide range of furry creatures and delightful outfits in which to adorn them, you'll have no problem choosing the one that best says I Love You to your favourite kid-at-heart.