People tend to visit all the tourist attractions when they visit other cities, but somehow overlook those in their own back yard. I can’t tell you how many people I have talked to that have never been to Monticello. If you haven’t been to Monticello (or haven’t been in a while), now is a great time to visit. They have decorated for the holiday in a manner in which it would have been done by TJ himself. On your way back, you can stop by Michie Tavern.

Another holiday tradition that is often overlooked is actually going to see a production of the Nutcracker. This weekend, you can see it in two places. PVCC is hosting the only local live production or you can go to the Paramount and watch the Moscow Ballet’s production.

In case you missed your annual fresh cider donut, or need a last minute fix for the season, stop by Carter Mountain Orchard for their last weekend of the season. Is there anything better than fresh cider donuts? And because you’ve earned it, make an appointment for a Holiday Glow treatment.

One of our favorite music artists for families is Ben Rudnick & Friends who released A Frog Named Sam in 2009.  Totally into vehicles, my son sings the Race Car all. the. time.

When Ben Rudnick & Friends released It’s Santa Claus! earlier this month, I knew it would be a hit with the little guy.

This 8 track CD features 7 Christmas classics plus their title “It’s Santa Claus” with a campy mid-century rock-a-billy feel that gets your toes tappin’ while your countenance is merry and bright.

It’s Santa Claus! retails for $9.95, and it’s available directly on the Ben Rudnick & Friends website.

WIN IT!

One (1) winner will receive a CD of It’s Santa Claus (retail value $9.95).  To enter, leave a relevant comment on this post prior to December 15th at 11:59 p.m.  That’s it! Please follow the contest rules and avoid any generalized comments, or you will be disqualified.

*Note: I received a copy of the CD for review purposes.  Read my full disclosure policy.

So excited to introduce the Traveling with Baby Holiday Gift Guide for 2010. Every single item on the gift guide was hand-picked by me (with some input from my son).

Image by Elisa B Photography

What you won’t find on the gift guide:

• plastic toys, or any toys for that matter
• non eco-friendly items
• items that will most likely end up in a landfill by spring

What you will find on the gift guide:

• Thoughtful, heart-felt, and sentimental gift ideas
• Gift ideas created by woman-owned and mom-owned businesses
• Gifts that inspire creativity or imagination–with longevity
• Gifts that provide jobs for women in second or third world countries to support themselves
• Gifts made by talented local or by U.S.-based small businesses and artists

Some of the items on the gift guide will be available for you to win–you’ll be able to check off some of your holiday shopping list early–just by stopping by Traveling with Baby!  No need to wait until Black Friday.

All Gift Guide contests will close at 11:59pm on December 15, 2010.  Remember to follow the contest rules!

Tweet, facebook post, or blog about this gift guide using the short link http://ow.ly/3fCTC and #holidaygiftguide for one extra entry, and link to your tweet or post in a comment on the appropriate contest.

Wishing you and your family a blessed holiday season!

Gifts that Give

• Recycled rubber bracelets by Made with Love from Brazil

Gifts to Wear

• Eco-friendly children’s shoes by Umi
• Suede & Nubuck children’s shoes and boots by Eleven Collection
• Barefoot shoes by Vibram Five Fingers

Gifts to Hear

• It’s Santa Claus CD by Ben Rudnick & Friends

Gifts to Taste

• Organic Candy by Tru Sweets

Gifts to Remember

• Laser engraved personalized memorabilia by In a Flash Laser
• Professional photography session by Elisa B Photography

Gifts for Health

• Gift certificates for health & wellness services by Charlottesville area healers

Gifts on the Go

• Travel kits for all ages by TravelKiddy