It's rainy and overcast in Omaha today, and with the grey skies comes a major case of the crabbies. On days like today, it's not the high-end art or elaborate kitchen gear that's bringing me to The Afternoon, but the simple, silly things that will bring a smile to my face...and all for less than $10 a pop!
A sure mood lifter comes from our wide variety of wind-up toys you can find right by the counter. Don't write them off as kids' stuff. I know many an adult that has been delighted to receive a wind-up scrunch buggy caterpillar or tiny flipping airplane as a "just because" present.
And I can't help but love the Chanchitos: tiny three legged pigs with adorable little faces and curly piggy tales. A Chilean tradition, the three-legged pigs are believed to bring good luck and love (making them a wonderful addition to wedding presents, as well as a token of happiness).
But I think the star of the day has to be the Solar Powered Flower, which sways with undisguised pep and delight whenever exposed to light. Between the dancing and the bright, happy colors, you can't help but smile! No batteries, no water, no fertilizer required - it's even pollen-free for our allergy-ridden friends. (Luckily, the flower can also be charged by artificial light, so even on cloudy days like today, or in a windowless office, you'll still be able to get a dose of "sunshine"!)