I know I've heard it many times, and on occasion been guilty of muttering it myself. Giving a somewhat quizzical look at some requests, I've asked "but what are you going to do with it? Wouldn't you prefer a nice sweater or a gift card?" No, they would not. The real value of a gift is not what it costs, or even what the giver thinks it should be. A gift is what the receiver values it at. The heart wants what it wants, and if a little monkey in a jockey suit makes someone smile every time they see it, then it is a priceless gift.

Since this column is all about animals, bears and the artists who bring them to life, I'd like to offer some suggestions for those among us that may be getting close to the eleventh hour when it comes to shopping.

As luck would have it we live in a time when worldwide shopping is a snap, and finding the perfect gift to give is just a few keystrokes away. You will be amazed at what you can find, especially if you're looking for a miniature animal companion to wrap up for that special someone. Most animal artisans will also create commission pieces to suit an individual's needs. LEFT, Aleah Klay created this Teddy and snowman
ABOVE, Ann Fisher created Raggedy Andy riding a tractor How much better can it get than that!