Looking for green gifts?

www.Greenhome.com offers a jumping-off point for ideas, or online orders, including gift bags made from recycled fabric, stuffed animals made of organic cotton and picture frames made from "repurposed" wood. Search "environmental products" online.

BAR ESSENTIALS

Here's a tip from U magazine, (www.umag hawaii.com), The Advertiser's fashion glossy, and staff writer Paula Rath: Streamline the bar for your next party by making the drinks liquor-specific — say, everything in the vodka category. Otherwise, be sure to have all the ingredients necessary for a range of options.

FINAL WORD

"I've always looked for my sanity, my sofa time, my long dinners."

Penelope Cruz | actress, in Vogue