September 28, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Fine Gifts

Categories: Baby, Collectibles, Home

Swarovski 2010 Holiday Ornament is now here!

2010 Swarovski Breast Cancer Collection: 2010 Pink Hope Collection features a pin, pendant, bracelet, charm, tac pin and pen. Swarovski will donate 10% of sales to the Libby Ross Foundation.

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We just received our largest shipment ever of Limoge Boxes. These delicate collectibles from France go fast. Come see the fashionable hats, purses, violin cases, animals and more.

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Baby Joining Your Family? We are one of the few stores that carry a full line of keepsake baby items: commemorative cups, bowls, spoons, tableware, piggy banks, and our newest – a Peter Rabbit dish set from Wedgwood.

All gifts don our signature ribbon.

September 26, 2010, Author: Bev, 1 Comment

Pining for The Little Traveler

Categories: General
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Little Traveler,

Since I moved to Scottsdale AZ I have pined for you.

I just had 2 jars f Pumpkin Butter sent to me so I’m feeling much better,

Tiger

Thanks, Tiger!  Looking for something to do with that Pumpkin Butter? Try this recipe for Pudding Pumpkin Cake.

September 23, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Vera Bradley Winter 2010 Revealed

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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The Little Traveler is excited to get to show you the wonderful new colors and fabric patterns by Vera Bradley for Winter 2010.  What you see here will give you a taste of what’s new, but you’ll need to visit The Little Traveler’s Vera Bradley Room to get the full flavor.  See how handbags, totes, backpacks and luggage look in the new colors and patterns.  Follow us on Facebook to be the first to know about Vera Bradley events in our stores.

The Colors

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Baroque: A modern print, but one deeply rooted in a romantic time of Elizabethan tapestries and Rococo fabrics. The contemporary feel of the Baroque fabric patterns marries traditional motifs with black, citrine, grays, and warm white. The effect is at once formal and very fresh.

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Versailles: If history is bound to repeat itself, what prettier way than with this beautiful print that whispers of rich brocade and grandeur? The modern approach: Rich, intense colors – like ruby and green, periwinkle and gold – on a pure black ground. Try these fabric patterns and see what fashion history you can make!

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Buttercup: These pretty posies pack a fashionable punch. Vera Bradley’s winter bloomers bring a light and breezy touch with warm tones of butter yellow, coral, fresh green, and chocolate. The ideal design fabric patterns for the free spirit!

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Twirly Birds Navy: Deep navy, the new must-have color for every wardrobe, takes flight with this whirling, twirling, whimsical design in winter white. Why not take these fine-feathered friends for a twirl?

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Twirly Birds Pink: Birds of a feather… flock to a great cause! Twirly Birds Pink is Vera Bradley’s newest Breast Cancer Awareness design. Raspberry pink and warm white warblers twitter sweat songs of  support. Ten percent of Vera Bradley’s net proceeds from the sale of products in Twirly Birds Pink (and Loves Me …) will be donated to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer and other breast cancer projects and services.

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The Styles

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Caitlyn: The newest petite handbag was named after a Vera Bradley summer intern in Product Development.

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Squared Away: Named by a Vera Bradley employee in a company-wide contest, this new bag is perfectly sized with great narrow trim detailing.

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Perfect Pocket Tote: This tall open tote is the ideal carryall with hidden magnetic closures in two deep, front pockets. Inspired by the Summer 2009 Nylon Collection bag – Chelsea Tote.

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One for the Money: This perfect-sized wallet has a secure snap closure and great kisslock details on the inside.

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Opera Wallet: Can be used as a clutch in addition to a wallet. Functional organization on the inside with nine card slots, one cash or checkbook slip pocket, and an ID wallet.

September 23, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Get Your Table Ready for Fall

Categories: Home
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Rich ceramics are perfect for autumn. Enhanced by the rich hues and images from fall, our two new ceramic place settings are sure to please. Use from now through Thanksgiving. Fall Elegance and Harvest Blessing are sure to tempt your tastebuds.

We also carry a new full line of dishes inspired by the old world look of the wine Cellar. The elegant serveware and practical tableware will make your table charming.

September 22, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Fall Fun in Toys

Categories: Toys

The Little Traveler has the coolest zanybandz: tye-dye, bold & bright, and even glow-in-the-dark!

Madame Alexander is celebrating Sixty Years of Peanuts with Charlie Brown and Lucy dolls! Cloth dolls are 14″ high with embroidered eyes, mouth, and eyebrows.  Yarn hair is attached – well, for Lucy, at least. Charlie comes dressed in his classic yellow zig-zag shirt and Lucy in her blue dress.

Other fun things in The Little Traveler Toy Department: Pop-up tents encourage early development skills. Kids can use their imaginations in their school house, princess castle or pirates ’ cave.  Ambi Toys are great fun for ages 6 months and up. Rattles, doggies, cars and more.  New selection of wood furniture has arrived: sturdy table and chairs in rich mahagony or honey are destined to become an heirloom.

Expand their minds – give a child a book. We have dozens of new books in our library, and be sure to check out our on-line bookstore.

September 22, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

A Bountiful Selection for Your Home

Categories: Home
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Find everything you need to make your entire home delicious at The Little Traveler.

Table linens in 54- and 66-inch squares from April Cornell, Karen Ballard, and Patricia Spratt provide a luxurious splash of color to your autumn decor.

Transform those blank square walls into something spectacular with our new collection of metal pieces, mirrors, and pictures.

‘Leaf ’ your cares behind as you enter our paper department this fall: Gorgeous fall patterns adorn paper plates and napkins. New rectangle plates add a contemporary flair.

Sugared gourd card holders and battery-operated mini lamps add sparkle to your fall table.

September 17, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Cherished Gifts

Categories: General
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Thank you so much for the gift certificate to THE BEST unique store ever, “The Little Traveler.”  I so enjoy not only bringing guests there, but also enjoy coming by myself.

I recently lost my husband to a long battle of cancer.  While waiting for his prescriptions, I would stop by to help take my mind off of things. He always knew that The Little Traveler was a favorite of mine, often giving me gift certificates or would come shopping with me, so I could give him some ideas. Now, it comforts me to shop at The Little Traveler, feeling that a part of my husband is with me, overseeing what I am about to purchase.

One of my most cherished gifts that my husband purchased for me was the Swarovski Red Dress for Women Charm.  My mother passed from heart disease and since my husband purchased it for me, it has a very special place in my heart.

Knowing how much I enjoy shopping at The Little Traveler, my son has carried on the tradition.  Also, gift certificates can be ordered from people who reside in other states for us, who are lucky enough to live close enough to Geneva.  My sister, who lives in Texas, has ordered gift certificates for me, knowing that is the best gift that she could give.

Sincerely,

Kathie Osborn

September 17, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

In the Gourmet Department

Categories: Food and Wine

Ginger – the cure-all
Called “The Great Medicine” by ancient Indians, ginger has long been touted for its cleansing effect on the body, helping to fight viruses, nix nausea, lessen pain, and promote healthy digestion. The Little Traveler’s gourmet department has tasty candies and chews – the most delicious “medicine” you’ll ever eat.

Homemade Spreads and Preservatives
At Hurd Orchards, a family farm in western New York, fruits are hand picked and prepared in small batches for maximum flavor. Our favorites include Cinnamon Honey Pear Spread, Cranberry Apple, and Spiced Rhubarb. Hurd Orchards spreads and preserves make a great gift for the gourmet.

479º Premium Organic Popcorn
Turn an ordinary moment into a special occasion with this totally organic, totally awesome snack. Try these unusual flavors: Fleur de Sel Caramel, Chipotle Caramel and Almonds, Truffle and White Cheddar, and Ginger Sesame Caramel!

Fat Witch Brownie Mix
A legendary mix created by Fat Witch founder Patricia Helding, this is a no-nonsense brownie – no icing, no additives, no preservaives, no transfat, just great taste. It is such an intense chocolate experience that the only word to describe it is incredible!

Handcrafted Old World Cashew Crunch
Each batch is made from start to finish by the same four Amish ladies.  The entire process takes twenty-four hours from start to finish with no fancy gadgets necessary. Experience and judgment are the secret ingredients to getting it right. As one of the Amish cooks puts it: “Judging the carmelization is an art of taste.” Pick some up at in the gourmet department or at our on-line store and judge for yourself.  We think you’ll find it to be a Picasso.

September 16, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

What’s New for Little Girls Fall/Winter 2010

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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The sweater dress is back with a little updating. These are perfect for anything from casual to dressy in solids, stripes and patterns. And the best part… no ironing. Sizes 2T-6X.

Skimps from LeTop A great way to dress your little one…leggings with colorful bubble-hem tops. Easy to care for and they always look good. Great for play, school and even grandma’s house. Sizes 2T-6X.

September 16, 2010, Author: Bev, 1 Comment

Free Vera Bradley, just in time for gift giving

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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This Fall we’re having two wonderful Vera Bradley giveaways.  Get something for you and a gift for someone else…or keep it all for yourself, we won’t tell.

September 23-October 4

Choose your Vera Bradley Gift!

November 26 ONLY!

FREE Vera Bradley Tote in Baroque

September 15, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Annual Coat Sale Starts September 15

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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Just because the temperatures are dropping and we’ll soon be forced to cover up doesn’t mean your have to hide you impeccable flair for fashion.

Starting September 15, save 20% on select winter outerwear at The Little Traveler, including wools, faux furs, suedes, microfibers, boiled wool, and leathers. We have several styles with many more on their way all season long, so you’re certain to find the coat of your dreams.

Fashion Tip #1: Animal prints are hot in everything this season, including coats.

Fashion Tip #2: Tapestry jackets are the perfect item to fashionably take you from fall into winter.

Fashion Tip #3: Now more than ever, fun is Number One!

September 15, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Brighton for Fall 2010

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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As the #1 Brighton retailer in the Midwest and one of the top one-percent of retailers in the country, The Little Traveler is pleased to be Chicagoland’s headquarters for Brighton fashions.

Neutral is the buzz word for handbags this season. You’ll see lots of taupes, metallics, browns, and blacks with a touch of teal thrown into purses. The Valencia Soft Tote (pictured) proves that neutral and fun can most definitely coexist.

Brighton charms are still the hot item in jewelry and they’re not just for bracelets. Add them to a handbag, briefcase or tote to make it your own.

Brighton kicks off the fall season with the Bev To-Go Event from September 10-26. With a single $100 Brighton purchase you will receive a Brighton Printed Tumbler absolutely FREE!$25 value
(Limit one per customer while supplies last)

September 8, 2010, Author: Bev, 1 Comment

Pudding Pumpkin Cake

Categories: Food and Wine
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Ingredients:

2 cups flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 tsp Blue Cattle Truck Pure Mexican Vanilla *
1 cup (2 sticks) butter melted
2 cups pecans
1 jar Stonewall Kitchen Maple Pumpkin Butter*

*Available in The Little Traveler’s Gourmet Department


Directions:

Preheat oven to 325º and grease 9 x 13 baking pan with shortening. Excluding Maple Pumpkin Butter, mix all other ingredients well. Batter will be firm. Spread in prepared pan. Spread Maple Pumpkin Butter over batter. Bake until bubbles have risen to the top and cake feels firm to the touch, approximately 55-60 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted. Transfer to a rack to cool. Cool overnight or refrigerate before cutting.

September 8, 2010, Author: Bev, 1 Comment

Fancy Shepherd’s Pie

Categories: Food and Wine
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Ingredients:

1 lb ground pork 1 lb ground beef
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 cup Robert Rothschild garlic champagne mustard*
1 Tbsp Dean Jacobs Extra Virgin Olive Oil*
2 cups Stonewall Kitchen Corn Relish*
1 med onion, finely diced
2 cups frozen corn
5 lrg potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 jar Stonewall Kitchen Artichoke Caper Relish*
1/4 lb butter – reserve 2 tablespoons, keep chilled
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup milk

*Available in The Little Traveler’s Gourmet Department

Directions:

Boil potatoes in salted water until tender . Heat oil in skillet, add onion and cook until soft. Add beef, pork, salt, pepper and cook until crumbly and no longer pink, drain off fat. Add mustard, mix well and pour into 9 x 13 baking dish. Mix corn relish with corn and layer evenly over meat. Drain potatoes, return to pot, add 6 tablespoons butter and coarsely mash. Add artichoke caper relish and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, mash well. Add remaining milk slowly until desired consistency. Spread potatoes evenly over corn layer. Top with pats of chilled butter and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 350º for 40 minutes and potatoes are browned.

September 7, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Festival of the Vine Tees

Categories: Uncategorized

You’ll be the toast of the town at the Festival of the Vine in The Little Traveler wine tee, adorned with wine glasses and text that makes it uniquely Geneva.

Available in black with purple writing or pale purple with purple writing in sizes S-XL for only $29.99.

The Little Traveler wine tee scored highly with wine lovers for character and style!

September 2, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Old is New Again in Fashion Accessories

Categories: Clothing and Accessories
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A hat is about more than simply keeping you warm. It’s a fashion opportunity—nothing polishes off your look like a well chosen hat.  And the upcoming season offers plenty of opportunity with retro detailing making a big comeback in hat fashions for the fall & winter 2010/11 season.  Look for vintage details like flowers, ribbons, buttons, and faux fur  in cloches, berets, caps, fedoras and more.

The Little Traveler has  beautiful styles arriving each day, so come on in to meet the hat of your dreams and define your style for the new season.

August 30, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

R.J. Lindsey Brings History to Life

Categories: Historical Dramatizations
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R.J. Linsey uses his thirty years of experience as a researcher, writer, and actor to create portraits of some of the most fascinating men in history. Lindsey draws upon his own family’s rich history; his ancestors served in the Virginia militia during the Revolution in 1776, settled the Great Plains by covered wagon, and joined the Kansas Volunteers during the Civil War.

His Franklin Roosevelt programs have appeared at the National Museum of American History in Washington, DC, and his voice as FDR was heard reading “A Christmas Carol” at the “Christmas in the White House” special exhibit at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Museum in Springfield, IL.  His living history programs have been seen from Jerusalem to London. Organizations such as the Evanston Historical Society, the Rockford Midway Museum, and Rotary One Chicago have even directly commissioned him to create specific biographical presentations.

On October 19 at 9:00 a.m., R.J. Lindsey will appear at The Little Traveler with his presentation: Carr Van Anda with “Stories Aboard the Titanic” Tickets are $18.50 ( includes continental breakfast and a $5 gift certificate to be used that day), and can be purchased on-line or by phone beginning September 27.

On April 14, 1912 the H.M.S. Titanic struck an iceberg and sent out an S.O.S. At 1:30 a.m. Carr Van Anda, Managing Editor of the New York Times read that wireless message.  Van Anda presents a slide program telling the story of the great ship from its construction to its final hours and the newspaper’s response.  He takes a look at the personal stories of various first, second, and third class passengers and the twists of fate that brought them all together.  Artifacts on display.

As a theatrical professional, Lindsey has appeared on stage and television.  Lindsey earned a Masters degree from Illinois State University and is a member of Actor’s Equity, the Screen Actor’s Guild, and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

August 27, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Another Sign of Fall – Festival of the Vine

Categories: Food and Wine
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Come meet and toast Gunther, owner of Schlink Haus Winery in Germany, during his birthday celebration. Mr. Schlink always plans his US visit around our Festival of the Vine because he enjoys it so much! Mr. Schlink started his formal training in France and Germany. After marrying his sweetheart, he entered the business with his father Georg. In 1957 he started building his own import/export business in German, French and Italian wines. Presently he is working as the Senior President for Schlink Haus Winery all over the world. We’re very honored he chose The Little Traveler to help celebrate this milestone.

Discover new favorites at one of our many tasting stations during this year’s event, September 10-12. We will be sampling from dozens of vintners including Schlink Haus, Glunz and local wineries such as Lynfred and Illinois River, plus many more. In addition to our delightful selection of reds and whites, we will sample several seasonal wines such as Hollowine and Chateau St. Nick. And for chocolate lovers we will again be pouring the Chocovine! This delicious combination of Dutch chocolate and French cabernet is a Little Traveler favorite. And, as always, The Little Traveler’s samples are free!

August 27, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Spending Quality Time with the People You Love Most

Categories: General
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Growing up on a farm just about 30 miles west of Geneva, I thought that it was such a treat to be taken to my mom’s favorite lunch destination, the Little Traveler. This was a favorite place for mom and her friends to reunite and catch up on life. Sometimes I was afforded the opportunity to “tag along.”

As time went on and I moved away, finally settling in SC, I began to appreciate the unique experience of visiting the Little Traveler each summer with my mom. Nowhere else seemed to offer such a wonderful opportunity to dine and shop for hours all in one store. One summer when I was coming home for a class reunion, she suggested that we have lunch at the Little Traveler to see if I might be able to find just the right dress for the occasion. Sure enough, we found a two-piece outfit that was the prettiest teal color with some crocheted detail that made it a one-of-a-kind outfit. She loved it the minute she saw it on me and insisted on buying it for me.

Sadly, six years ago this very month, my sweet mother passed away leaving an unbelievable void in my life. As I was making my decision as far as what I should wear for her funeral, I put aside the notion of wearing the traditional black outfit and decided upon that awesome teal dress that we shopped for together. It represented not just a singular moment of time we shared at your shop, but in a larger sense it represented the importance of spending quality time with the people you love most. Thanks for providing some great memories!

Beth Jacky, Lexington, SC

July 28, 2010, Author: Bev, Leave a comment

Brighton FREE Gifts to you

Categories: Jewelry
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August 2 – 8: Brighton Write-On

With a single $100.00 purchase or more you will receive a Brighton Polly Pencil Pouch, six printed pencils, and a matching notebook absolutely FREE!! (Limit one per customer). Retail value of $25.00.

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September 10-26: Brighton Bev To-Go

Receive a stainless steel printed tumbler featuring an assortment of our signature prints that will hold hot and cold beverages absolutely FREE with a single $100 purchase. (Limit one per customer). $25 retail value.

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October 29 – November 14: Brighton Keeping It Safe

From October 29 – November 14, receive the Brighton Madison jewelry case absolutely FREE!! (Limit one per customer) with a single $100 Brighton purchase. (Limit one per customer). $30 retail value.

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