4 Things We Love

1. At its little jewel of a gift shop, Temple Emanu-El stocks exquisite Judaica and crafts from around the globe. But in an unusual offering, the synagogue’s Chai Boutique also showcases made-for-Hawaii skullcaps depicting sun-drenched scenes from the Aloha State ($9 apiece).

Periodically, volunteer manager/buyer Dede Guss, joined by her mother, longtime seamstress Pat Soares, scours outlets throughout Honolulu — Fabric Mart is a favorite — for yardage appropriate to the creation of these reversible head coverings.

“My mother usually makes 50 kippot at a time,” said Guss, referring to the Hebrew word for the skullcaps. “She cuts and snips the fabric into whatever patterns she wants. It takes a lot of effort.” (Her mother also designs potholders and aprons featuring large bagels on black backgrounds.)

Find all at Temple Emanu-El’s annual Holiday Craft Fair, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. today, 2550 Pali Highway. Info: 595-7521, shaloha.com.

— Greta Beigel, Waikiki

2. I recently discovered Cromwell women’s boutique, relocated from Fort Street Mall to a hidden corner of Kahala Square at 4218 Waialae Ave.

The locally owned shop features Hourglass Lilly’s supersoft, lightweight rayon tops and dresses with a cool, dreamy drape. This slinky sleeveless dress in mocha and black was $48 and the jacket was $33.95, but watch for frequent sales. Cromwell also sells footwear by SAS, FitFlops, Vionic and more.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 384-1151.

— Christie Wilson, Star-Advertiser

3. Every baker knows that top-quality ingredients make all the difference. So I’ll whip up my lilikoi meringue pie sans electric mixer but never without Shaka Moa Eggs.

Not since I upped my game with crepes and far breton in rural France have I found eggs that match the magical orbs from the hens of our former next-door farmer, Madame Gallen. Shaka Moas, laid at Maili Moa Farm in Waianae, pack that local, free-range cachet plus the elasticity and fresh, rich flavor that make everything golden: mixing, rising, texture and taste.

They cost about $7 to $8 per dozen at Holoholo General Store, Kokua Market, Whole Foods Market and similar stores.

— Mindy Pennybacker, Star-Advertiser

4. In preparation for a recent trip to San Diego, I asked my colleague there what I might bring him from Hawaii. I figured he’d ask for the perennial favorites: chocolate-covered mac nuts and Kona coffee.

Instead, he said, “Ooh! Grab some bags of those awesome Dole pineapple chews!”

Huh?

Turns out, they’re like a cross between Dole Whip (oh, Disney fans are already swooning) and Starburst. They’re tasty, very easy to pack and a big hit with mainland friends.

A 14-ounce package of Dole Pineapple Chewy Candy sells for $9.99 at ABC stores and in the gift shop at the Dole Plantation at Wahiawa.

— Lee Cataluna, Star-Advertiser

“4 Things We Love” is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. Please keep in mind that featured products may be in short supply and may not be available at all store locations; prices may vary. Tell us what you are loving by emailing features@staradvertiser.com.