Diana Cohen of Wilmette took some time from helping customers at Raven and Dove Jewelry and Gifts, 1143 Greenleaf Ave., to share some holiday memories, advice on gift-buying and how she keeps warm in the winter, among other things.
Now that the first snow of the season has fallen, can you tell us how you get ready for winter?
I think warm thoughts. I just go from my house, pop down my stairs, get in my car and go, so I don’t have to do much shoveling or any other preparation to stay warm. I do feel sorry for people who have to take a train and wait in the cold.
It sounds like you’re not a fan of shoveling. Who does the shoveling at your house?
It’s got to be my husband – and can you believe he enjoys it? Since he wants to, I let him. He’s very energetic!
Do you have a cause or charity that you’d like people to know about?
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), which helps people with juvenile diabetes. It’s also called Type 1 diabetes and we jumped into that world when my son was 11 and diagnosed with it.
When someone comes in to the shop, looking for holiday gifts, what might you recommend to them?
That depends. After we ask about the gender they’re buying for, we can make suggestions. For gals, I’d say it’s either antiques or jewelry. For a fella? They seem to like things in sterling (silver) and cashmere.
What’s a favorite holiday tradition for you and your family?
Oh, trimming the tree together. We do it a little before Christmas and make sure we get the kids together. Ever since my kids were 3 or 4 years old, we’ve made a special ornament together for each year. They’ve kept them all in boxes, and those come out to help trim the tree.
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In addition to thinking warm thoughts, how do you keep your hands toasty when you go outside in the winter; gloves or mittens?
I’m a glove girl!
And finally, what’s your favorite holiday movie?
It’s got to be “A Christmas Story.” Every time I watch that crazy story, I find something funny that I didn’t find before.
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