For those looking for authentic, old-fashioned craftsmanship, look to Thos. Moser Cabinetmakers. Founded in 1972 in Maine, the company's mission is to build furniture that celebrates the natural beauty of wood. They offer a simple, unadorned, graceful line that is crafted for a long, useful life.

The latest is David Moser's Pasadena collection that not only looks delicate, shapely and feminine, but also is sturdy enough for many future generations to enjoy.

Shadow lines were of utmost importance in this collection. All of the edges are sanded by hand to ensure the proper play of light and shadow. The fluidity of the pieces resemble the flow of the ocean.

"The edges of the table and chairs have a cascading effect where they just roll over the side," said designer Moser. "It's like the edge never stops moving — it's fluid like the tide."

The Pasadena collection includes:

— Pasadena dining table: While this table may look simple, it is extremely complex to finish and requires hours of hand carving. The tabletop rests on the legs and the circular joints lie flush, giving it that ocean feeling. Retail price is $5,600 to $6,200.

— Pasadena dining chairs: The motion of the table is continued with these modern, geometric hourglass side chairs and armchairs. Legs are faceted and splayed for stability, minus the bulk. The chairs are slender and graceful, and the seats are wide and comfortable. Retail price for the side chair is $1,900, while the armchair sells for $2,500.

— Pasadena side table: This is a narrower, perhaps more versatile option to the dining table. You can use this piece as a hall table, writing desk, vanity or side table. Retail price is $3,500.

All of Thos. Moser pieces are handcrafted from American black cherry; they can also be ordered in other select American hardwoods.

They stand behind their pieces. If you are not satisfied with your Thos. Moser purchase within 30 days, you will receive a refund or your piece can be rebuilt.

If you take care of your furniture, you'll enjoy it for a lifetime. However, if there is a failure with the wood or workmanship at anytime during the life of the original owner, you can either have it repaired or replaced. Upholstery (fabric, leather, cane, foam) is warranted for five years, but some custom items are excluded.

For more information, call 800-862-1973 or visit www.thosmoser.com.

TIME TO GET UP

Waking kids up is never fun; however, if parents want to make an immediate score in the morning, try a sports clock by Hideki Electronics Inc.

These sports-themed clocks include a soccer ball, basketball and baseball. They are intended to introduce children to time awareness and management without the usual fuss ... they can actually find it enjoyable.

"The most exciting feature for kids has been the projection display of time onto the ceiling or wall," said Jim Boyle, president of Hideki. "Sometimes the fraction of light can be like a comforting nightlight too."

The display comes with an on/off option for those who prefer the dark.

Additional clock features include: time and calendar display, backlit LCD screen, single crescendo alarm and a snooze alarm. Two AAA batteries (not included) are needed for backup. An AC/DC adaptor is also available.

Retail price is $20. For more information, call 866-443-3543 or visit www.hidekielectronics.us.

Maggie Reed may be reached at trocar2000@hotmail.com. To find out more about Maggie Reed, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit www.creators.com.

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