WILLOW GLEN. This marvelous little store, which is located in the fashionable Willow Glen area, has a knowledgeable, fun-loving sales staff and terrific small items. Comforts sells a little bit of this and a little bit of that - from artsy dish towels to bird houses and garden accessories. The items sold are unique and make great gift items for those who didn't get to make the trip to San Jose with you.

Located in the fashionable Los Gatos area, Four Green Fields offers patrons a touch of the Emerald Isle. In fact, owner Jim Curley takes great pride in the store's Grafton Street appearance. The store specializes in Irish imports such as Waterford crystal, Celtic jewelry, Belleek Parian china, and pottery. The store also carries a wide selection of special interest books and music.

LOS GATOS. If you're a cigar or pipe aficionado, Fumare offers much of note. Fine tobaccos and premium cigars are for sale in the downtown shop, along with a variety of humidors, lighters, and accoutrements. Members can also take advantage of a comfortable lounge that's rich in leather and polished woods. It invites patrons to enjoy a smoke, have a beer or a glass of whiskey, and kick back, watch sports on high-definition satellite TV, or test their mettle in a game of chess. Other perks include private humidor lockers and an outdoor patio.

Kepler's Books and Magazines, which is located in nearby Menlo Park, is one of the Valley's most famous bookstores. In the 1960s, it was a favorite of politically minded writers and artists, and the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia even worked here at one time. Today, the bookstore continues to help foster young writers and to promote established ones. If you want a book that isn't on the shelf, just let the sales' staff know and they'll order it for you. Next-door is a small coffee shop where you can peruse the latest addition to your library.

WILLOW GLEN. Nancy B, which is located in the posh Willow Glen area, carries a wide selection of merchandise and home furnishings. This is the place to find that beautiful armoire or coffee table that you have been looking for. Nancy B will accept special-orders for designer sofas, chairs, and tables. The store also carries framed art, candles, coffee table books, throw pillows, and lamps.