This is surely a spot where Santa shops
Stores try to get different gifts and decorating treasures for you so you don't see the same items at stop after stop.
Here are some offerings at Chalet, 3132 Lake St., Wilmette. Call (847) 256-0561.
Mark Roberts makes Christmas fairies that bend, flex and pose. Money from the sale of certain fairies goes to designated children's hospitals, The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Prices range from $25 for a 9-inch fairy to $80 for one that is 3 feet tall.
Three-dimensional metal decorations from California Floral & Import Co. can be used inside and out.
They include a train set, airplanes, reindeer and Santa. The prices are $15 to $325.
Nature Creations Birdhouses are made of recycled materials such as barnboard. They start at $40.
Of course, Chalet offers many tropical plants and greens, from poinsettias and mini conifers to topiaries and orchids.
And believe it or not, live reindeer hang out here through Wednesday.
The Wright way to rock troubles away
Frank Lloyd Wright continues to open many an eye design wise.
One of his converts is Loche Lee. Lee, who is from Malaysia, was working in the financial industry when his wife, Debbie, took him to Wright's home and studio in Oak Park.
Ten years later, Lee -- long a frustrated craftsman -- sells versions of Prairie and Arts and Crafts pieces around the world.
Prairie Loft has just moved to a new gallery at 1320 North Route 59 (south of 111th Street) in Naperville.
This rocking chair is priced at $1,100. Visit www.prairieloft.com or call (630) 922-9990.
Outdoor fun calls from the arboretum
Getting outdoors is important, even this time of year, and the whole family can enjoy a romp at Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
"Winter Forts" is a drop-in activity in the Children's Garden. All ages learn where animals live in the winter from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 22-23.
Youngsters can enjoy a nature hike daily at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. through Feb. 29.
A walk featuring the top 10 favorite conifers is at 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Decorated trees wait for you in the visitor center.
The model train is dressed for the holidays, and you can buy tickets to ride on the Evergreen Express trolley.
A Winter Solstice Walk to reveal ancient and modern traditions is at 4 p.m. Dec. 22.
The arboretum is just north of the Reagan Tollway (I-88) on Route 53. Admission is $9; $8 for those age 65 and up and $6 for 3-17.
Admission for walking around outdoors is free Christmas Day, and restrooms will be open.
Visit www.mortonarb.org.
-- Deborah Donovan