My heart lies

with the last-minute shopper. Whether a product of biology or environment, I too tend to leave gift purchases until the last minute. It certainly does not make for a stress-free holiday. But some of us thrive on that stress. Unfortunately, the rest of you have to live with us. For this I am deeply sorry. But it must be.

Like the rush that accompanies a job at the helm of an ever-churning, deadline-driven publication, the combination of a ticking clock, a long list of names, and an empty basket focuses my muddled mind on the task at hand. My nostrils flare. It is go time. But it is a high-wire act. While mulling that list for weeks has produced myriad ideas for my loved ones, there are no guarantees that the stocking-stuffers will be in stock, that the presents will be present. Here is where the improvisational mind takes over and that most primary principle takes hold: “Never say no.” Behind every shop’s door is possibility. The most unlikely spot—a used-record store, a taxidermy shop—could contain a treasure you didn’t even know existed, and that your recipient didn’t even know they wanted. And perhaps won’t realize that they cherish until years from now.

I do realize that is a horrifying way to go about shopping for most people. And so, for you who prefer not to wait until this, the final week of the shopping season, but have somehow ended up alongside the professional procrastinator, I present this, the final Seattle Weekly Gift Guide of the 2014 holiday season.

Inside you will find more great gifts from local shops and makers, just as you have found in the past three installments (read them all at seattleweekly.com). There are amusing games for the bored teenager in your life, as well as artful objects for any home. And for those who don’t have time to run to the store to purchase these wares, we have compiled thoughtful gifts that you can just slip into a card in the comfort of your home. Your loved ones will cherish the gift of a night out at one of Seattle’s best restaurants or a membership to one of its most worthy arts organizations.

And you will not have to worry about running into the likes of me as I storm the aisles of commerce, nostrils aflare.

Mark Baumgarten

Editor-in-Chief