Part Two: The Flash’s guide to giving local

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Compiled by AMANDA KIMBLE
TheFlashToday.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the second in a two-part series about shopping for the holidays locally. Be sure and SHOP LOCAL this holiday season. 

ERATH COUNTY (November 25, 2016) – We searched high and low to find some truly Texan, totally local gifts worth giving this holiday season. From tasty treats and handcrafted works of art to lifestyle changes and makeovers to start the New Year off right, these gifts are useful and unique.   

Similar products may be found in stores beyond the county line, but these gifts and the hardworking men and women providing them live here, work here and shop here, providing a shot in the arm to the local economy.

Give big by shopping local this holiday season.

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11 –  Scripture Art Coloring Book

What better way to give a gift that honors the meaning of the season than with a scripture coloring book? Designed by JoDitt Williams, office manager at the Erath County Extension Office and leader of a ministry that includes Bible studies and an inspirational blog, the “Delight in the Word of God Volume 1 – Favorite Scriptures” coloring book is great for adolescents and adults.

The coloring book features original artwork by Williams, scripture quotes large enough to color, matching journal pages, practical and relatable devotionals and more.

The “Delight in the Word of God Volume 1 – Favorite Scriptures” can be purchased through Amazon or arrangements for local pick up can be made by emailing Williams at jdw@joditt.com.

Learn more about the new book, Williams and her ministry on the JoDitt Designs website.

12 – Bingo Bucks

Looking to give a good time and benefit a good cause this holiday season? Consider gifting cold hard cash and encouraging the recipient to spend it all at Flamingo Bingo of Stephenville. They’ll have plenty of fun and a chance to walk away with some extra loot, too.

The best part: proceeds benefit Disabled American Veterans Chapter 234, a nonprofit organization supporting the brave men and women who have served the United States and now live in the local area.

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13 – Body Art

Looking for something special for the art lover in your life? Think ink.

Electric Ink Tattoo Studio packs a whole lot of local talent under one roof. The artists have combined decades of experience and awards that speak to the quality of their work. They can sketch up original works or ensure that your own design withstands the test of time.

The shop also provides body piercing services. Electric Ink, located in the Bosque River Centre, provides a fun, clean space. The hometown business is owned by Austin Pack, a lifelong area resident, military veteran and Tarleton State University graduate.

Gift certificates are available. Stop by the shop or call 254-968-5577 for more information.

cutting-edge

14 – Custom Heirloom Woodworks

Cutting Edge WoodWorks is a two-fold business functioning as a mobile saw mill and custom woodworking shop.

Wesley Jones, the craftsman, can cut down that tree in the middle of your family’s farm and turn it into a piece of heirloom furniture. It’s a gift that will withstand the tests of time and offer a story that spans generations.

Cutting Edge is a built-to-order shop, so there’s no showroom or retail store from which you can choose your favorite pieces. But, Jones stocks a selection of woods, including cedar, mesquite, pecan and maple for gift givers who don’t have supplies of their own.

Check out the craftsmanship of this local business on the Cutting Edge WoodWorks website or Facebook page.

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15 – Hambone’s Seasoning

It’s no secret Texans love meat, especially beef and more specifically steak. So, what better gift than Erath County’s own special blend of flavor, Hambone’s Steak Seasoning as Big as Texas?

Hambone’s, a local catering business and food truck, knows delicious. You may not be able to convince Greg and Polly Hamilton to move in and serve as your personal chefs, but you can add their flavorful flare to all your meals. The seasoning has steak in its name, but it can be enjoyed by the veggie lovers on your list. Hambone’s seasoning goes on anything – baked potatoes, vegetable, popcorn, pork chops, hamburgers… Did we say steak?

This delectable concoction is made right here in Erath County and can be purchased at Beans and Franks, Barefoot Market and 377 Marketplace in Stephenville.

16 – Pampering

Who doesn’t love to be pampered? Massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, a new hairstyle…

Gift cards to any one of the area’s spas or salons is a great way to score points with loved ones this holiday season.

Give the gift that shows you know they work hard – and feel it – and encourage your friends, family or lovers to relax and unwind.

Don’t know where to go? Consider Zen Spa, P&R Massage & Salon, Southern Twist, The Freak Show Salon, Rare Orchid Salon, Luxury Day Spa & Nails or Baby’s Hair Designz (just to name a few).

Pro tip: If that special someone on your holiday shopping list has a regular choice for receiving pampering services, find out who and buy from them.

17 – Family photos

Family photos are a must for families big and small, and capturing all of life’s “Kodak moments” is priceless. Whether they use the gift for family portraits, newborn pictures, graduation photos, holiday-themed sessions, engagement or wedding photos, gift cards or gift certificates from any of the county’s talented shutterbugs are sure to be a hit at Christmastime.

Not sure who to call? Check out Kimmie’s Photography, Plan-it ink Photography or S. Roskilly Photography.

Insider knowledge: We hear Roskilly has a unicorn and reindeer to make the moment even more magical.

Another great idea: Call on the pros above for your own family photos this holiday season and take the images to the folks at Quality Printing. The local print shop can turn portraits into Christmas cards, calendars and other photo gifts.

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18 – Transformation

With the New Year quickly approaching, many people have their minds set on making major changes in their lifestyles. More exercise, meditation, yoga, healthy living and less stress are great gifts for your loved ones who are carrying a little extra weight – or the weight of the world.

There are several local establishments that aim to help people transform their minds, bodies and spirits, so consider a gift certificate from Stephenville Anytime Fitness, Body Shop Fitness Center, Stephenville Fit Body Boot Camp or Soul Feet Studios.

Friendly advice: You might sugarcoat this one. Give the gift of “stress relief” or “longer life” and not the need to lose weight. You’re welcome.

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