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t’s so enjoyable to leisurely walk the shopping park, popping into all the stores. This week I’m starting my walk at Mountain Rose Gifts in our new spot at 3808½ Ocean View, next to the Barber Shop. The gourmet gift selection includes things like Olallieberry Cabernet Dessert Topping, Bellagio Cocoa, Holiday Pasta and Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scone Mix, all gift wrapped in red, white and green.

A few steps to Honolulu Avenue and left to the 2200 block, I pause to look at the festive windows of Montrose Jewelers. They are ready for Christmas with lots of rings and great prices. Garo and his family have been here for 27 years.

If it’s plush toys you are after, stop in Critters. Angels, chocolates, and other opulent treats await you at Lara’s Gifts. Among all the stickers and papers you will find a wall of Christmas ornaments at Paper Rabbit.

Now let’s talk food and atmosphere. Star Café has done it again with their festive ceiling concept. This time giant red ornaments and bells are hanging with bursts of tinsel. I love when restaurants tastefully decorate for Christmas and play Christmas music, don’t you? Sake gets big cheers for their décor too. A giant lit Christmas tree reaches to the high ceiling, which is beautifully adorned with red silk ribbon and ornaments. Elegant Cucina Rustica has a beautiful, sparkling Christmas tree in the window that sets the tone. By the way, they have a new addition to their menu. The meatloaf with gravy and steak fries is to die for. Comfort food at its best. If you have a sweet tooth, hop on down to Rocky Cola and try one of their delicious cupcakes, especially the red velvet and lemon. It’s fun to sit inside and look out through their snowy window scenes.

Did you know Spa Pura was voted #1 spa in all of Glendale? To celebrate they are giving two 50-minute services for $100, a substantial savings. (Dale, I hope you are reading this. Hint, hint).

As for me, tonight my sister and I are headed to Wacky Wok for a quick dinner and shopping, thinking of the Chinese dinner scene in “A Christmas Story.” They just go together.

Hope these ideas inspire you. To see pics of these fun stores go to www.shopmontrose.com and click on our blog. I’ll see you next week with more Montrose inspiration. In the meantime enjoy this holiday season!

  Business, Mary Dawson