I need some suggestions for a housewarming gift

[Kat45]

I haven't had occasion to bring a housewarming gift to anyone in years and I have no idea what kind of item is appropriate. I'll be going to a brunch next week that will be attended by a small group of old friends. The woman having it is an old friend who I'm still in touch with, but rarely see. She bought a house in the last year (or two, I forget) out in Western MA, and since this is the first time I'll be there, I figure I should bring a housewarming gift--but I don't have a clue as to what to get. Help!

[OhioBlue]

1. flowers are always nice... but it is getting kind of

late for even mums. maybe some fresh flowers in a pretty vase? Real maple syrup with some organic pancake mix... If she celebrates Christmas, maybe a locally made decoration?

[Kali]

2. good hot mats and kitchen towels!

house plants (or garden plants if they are into that - a nut or fruit tree makes a lasting and useful gift), flowers, wine, cool welcome mat

[applegrove]

3. Get her some china bowls like in a pasta set.

[GreenPartyVoter]

4. I'm going to vote against the giving of plants if this person has pets, unless you

are sure you can get something pet-safe and nontoxic. :)

She's probably established so doesn't need useful things. Maybe artwork of some sort?

[Inchworm]

5. Umm, a bottle of wine, whiskey or some beers

But that's just me ;)

:+

[elleng]

6. 'Special' food items according to your taste, and hers if you know.

[grasswire]

7. a loaf of bread, some salt, and some wine

Traditional in some European cultures. Or bread, salt and a broom.

A nice bottle of sherry and a basket of seasonal fruits and nuts in the shell would be appropriate, too. Even better if you have some homemade jam or pickles.

[ChoralScholar]

8. A space heater is a nice housewarming gift....

and if it's Christmastime, a severed foot is the ultimate stoking stuffer.

I kid, I kid. You can never have enough dish towels I think... or perhaps pot-holders.