Drop-dead, last-minute shopping Main streets and back roads By Katy England edge staff writer kengland@themaineedge.com Whether you are absent minded, lazy or just enjoy the rush of waiting until the last minute to do your shopping, this is the story for you. Sure, you only have two days left until Christmas, but that's half the fun – or the insanity. Plus, if you've been a good elf and planned things out, think of this as a great way to spend that holiday cash you pulled in on the 25th. Personally, if I can, I try to avoid the hustle and bustle of box stores and big malls. Don't get me wrong, they're fine places to shop, but I like to find items that I can't get anywhere else. Here are a few places I hit (or plan on hitting real soon). The Rock and Art Shop Route 1A, Ellsworth The term "treasure trove" gets tossed around a lot when it comes to gift shops and jewelry stores. But this tiny shop fits the bill on so many levels. It's a unique blend of natural science, history, craftsmanship and art. You can pick up beautiful crystals, fossils, semi-precious stones and more. They also feature Maine-crafted jewelry – some with Maine gems mined locally and then crafted locally. All of the art on sale at the shop is from local Maine artists. Whether you have a budding art collector or rock hound on your list, or if you just need to find a unique gift for a unique friend, you need to check this place out. But hurry – they close for the season after Dec. 23. So, that's like now! Rooster Brother Ellsworth This is the shop for the gourmet and the gourmand. You can get anything the budding cook desires. Whether he's just getting his feet wet in the kitchen or she's a veteran at culinary masterpieces, you'll find something. There are also many handy cookbooks covering everything from soups to entrees, and desserts (with several books just about chocolate desserts) to all the accessories you'd need to make the dishes on the pages. One of the coolest features of Rooster Brother is the coffee, which is roasted on site. They sample all of the blends that they offer to ensure that you're getting premium beans. You can also pick up gourmet wines, cheeses, meats and other goodies in the downstairs portion of the store. Don't miss it! Pyramid Studios Ellsworth For the jewelry lover on you your list, you should check out this place, which boasts goldsmiths on site who ensure the jewelry you get is unique. You can also find quality Maine stones, including jasper and tourmaline. The Big Chicken Barn Ellsworth So, you've been everywhere and you can't find what you need? Try The Big Chicken Barn. The store gets its name from its previous occupation of housing poultry. Now it's the home to lots and lots of antiques. You can get just about anything: home furnishings, kitchen wares, home décor items, jewelry, toys, knick knacks and more. Plus, (yes, there's more) the entire upstairs houses libraries of second-hand books of all types. The Mill Mall Ellsworth This is a little strip where you can do a lot of shopping. Featuring furniture, crafts and more, it's a great place to cross a bunch of people off your list all at once. Also, if you're looking for that one-stop-shopping experience but still want some local flair, hit the Marden's or Reny's in Ellsworth. They have a great variety of items and wicked awesome prices. Metropolitan Soul Downtown Bangor This store has everything from fashion accessories to home décor and jewelry, all with a funky twist that helps you express your inner style. Check out the "Monster Bags;" no two are alike. Antiques Marketplace Downtown Bangor Here you'll find dozens of vendors selling hundreds of interesting items like furniture, jewelry, sports memorabilia and more. Plus, you can take a break from your shopping spree and warm up with a hot beverage or a snack. Bella Luna Downtown Bangor This boutique offers the cutting edge of fashion. You can find dresses, shoes, hats, bags and accessories. American Retro Downtown Bangor Find high-quality resale items at fantastic prices in this hip consignment shop. You can also pick up designer-style items such as handbags and jewelry, all at reasonable prices. Rebecca's Downtown Bangor This is the gift store to end all gift stores. There are lots of home décor features, Christmas ornaments and many fine items for your kitchen and home. Book Marc's, Lippincott's, The Briar Patch and Pro Libris Bangor For the bookworm on your list don't forget to check out your local book dealers. They have many local authors, Maine-themed books and popular or rare titles. All About Bags Outer Hammond Street This is for the purse and bag fiend in your life. There are hundreds of fantastic handbags in the place that will go with any outfit for any occasion. Hogan Road Deli Hogan Road, Bangor Can presents get any better than beer? There are hundreds of varieties all over the world at this shop. Some come in fun gift packages. State Street Wine Cellar Bangor If you're looking for the perfect bottle of wine, you can probably find it at the State Street Wine Cellar. There are plenty of fine labels from around the country and the globe, but you can also find specialty beers and interesting items, including mead. Winterport Winery, Penobscot Brewery Route 1A, Winterport For a purely Maine gift, wine and beer crafted right here in Maine make a great gift for friends and family near and abroad. There are many delicious wines and two fabulous beers that have been created right in Winterport. Perfect for a present – or your own Christmas cheer.