For those with sensitive ears

Silence is golden. No one knows that more than people who sleep with people who snore—you know snorers. And even though snoring is a serious health issue, and chronic snorers should contact their physician to learn why they have trouble breathing at night, this gift idea is aimed solely at people who have trouble dealing with the noise of snoring or really any other sound. Some people have really sensitive eardrums so it’s important to try to offer them some insulated cushion so they can indulge in sweet, silent dreams.

Although there are fancy headphones that provide white noise to block out what goes bump in the night (Halloween plug!), for the more economically-minded gift-giver who wants to make a funny point on the cheap, just consider foam earplugs.

Where to go:
Local drug stores carry a selection of different colors. Some people want to look good when they’re sleeping, so some earplug color coordination would not be out of the question. To make sure you get the appropriate selection, also consider checking out online stores.

For the cell phone chatterbox

With the number of people with landlines, who actually use them, going down, there have been more people relying on their cell phones to communicate. Problem is, cell phones aren’t too comfortable because they’re so “conveniently” sized for short talks. Try washing the dishes and chatting about your travel plans or news in the family on your little cell phone without straining your neck. It’s hard to do. To avoid such poor neck health consider the gift of blue tooth—the hands-free add-on to phones.

Blue tooth technology isn’t perfect. For starters, when you’re talking on the phone without actually holding a phone to your face and instead just talking into the air, you can look a little funny. So you have to be confident in your need to speak hands-free while doing something else.

Where to go:
Online, electronics stores, and cell phone retailers.

For the pack rat

In the spirit of full-disclosure, I must admit that I love saving stuff. I can’t really explain it except by saying that there is this little voice inside of my head that speaks up anytime I stand by a garbage can about to drop something inside. For instance, I just bought some new shoes and as I stared there looking at the now empty shoebox, I just couldn’t bring myself to discard it and instead jammed it underneath my bed to serve some future purpose that is currently to be determined. As a pack rat I know the importance of finding space for all these random items that for some reason other pack rats feel is necessary to keep around, and that is why the best gift for these obsessive keepers is the one that embodies function and style: the basket.

Baskets don’t only have to be for picnics or fruit or laundry; now they can hold flip-flops, stickers, an assortment of winter scarves, and whatever else can fit in them. Yet, unlike other containers which, quite simply, can just look like containers and intrude upon the visual appeal of a room, baskets come in a variety of forms and thus blend in or even add to the appearance of a space.

Where to go:
The home section of multi-purpose department stores should be a safe bet. But to view what would most likely be a larger selection of baskets that can serve different purposes and fit with different rooms, specialty stores that focus on organization and outfitting the home is a better option for basket shopping.

The Rectangular Crunch Basket by Umbra®
(Image from The Container Store®, http://www.containerstore.com/)

For the metal allergic prone with no sense of time

As someone who knows someone who’s allergic to metal, it’s no easy task buying the metal allergic prone a timepiece (yes, timepiece…it’s more fun to say than watch). One of the many failed attempts to provide a good-looking and modern timepiece to the person in question resulted in the gift of a plastic watch being called too juvenile. In defense of the timepiece, it was clear plastic, not multi-colored with polka dots and all the other cool things you can do with plastic. Thus, what is someone to do who wants to give the necessity of time keeping without making the gift recipient break out in hives? Instead of putting it on the wrist, put it on a chain.

Pocket watches and even necklace watches are kind of old timey, but it does look cool and it limits the contact with any possible allergy-inciting metal. You can even open up the watch with a tissue or something or even have special watch gloves…why not?

Where to go:
Because pocket and necklace watches are kind of an oddity, you have to pay for that rarity. That’s not to say that there are no inexpensive versions available (keeping in mind that inexpensive is relative) because I saw a precious little ladybug necklace watch online. The key is to be persistent in finding a nice timepiece for the allergic ones in your life: Giving the gift of time takes time.

Silver Tone Ladybug Charm Watch Necklace

by Ks Charming Designs

(Image from Amazon.com)

For those hungry at lunchtime

Not much beats food, not even sleep because a belly full of food can put you to sleep (sleep doesn’t tend to make you hungry). Food always takes center stage. Thus, people love when you give them free food. From baskets of fruit, cheese and crackers, or what have you.

In the same vein, people love gift certificates: it’s free money. Yeah, there’s a limit on how much you can spend. But you can spend it and not see any deduction from your own personal savings.

With two such amazing and highly-coveted gifts, it would be a genius idea to combine them into one super-gift, namely the grocery store gift card. A gift card to the grocery store may not be as flashy and trendy as clothes, gleaming accessories, or super-fast electronics, but it is probably the most practical gift out there and it works for anyone. Unlike restaurant gift cards where it helps to have a sense of what type of food the person likes—and you have to account for her/him wanting to eat with other people and maybe paying for a companion’s meal—the grocery store gift card only has one consideration: is it close enough to where s/he lives? And another great thing, even with rising food prices, your money still tends to go further when buying basic food items than on clothing and of course all the other distractions we invite into our lives.

Where to go:
The grocery store and maybe its online site too.

For the digital shutterbug

I neither like being in photos nor taking them, but I know quite a few people who love their digital cameras and bring them everywhere to capture the most mundane and extraordinary things in their lives. For some, it’s easy just to share the memories by posting the photos on a social networking site and/or an online photo gallery, but to make the photos have more of a permanent and tangible place a picture frame is in order. Some people print out digital photos, but for those who just haven’t gotten around to it, don’t know how to do it, or simply don’t want to spend the money each time there is the option of giving a digital picture frame.

Digital picture frames let you simply connect a camera memory stick and/or a computer with the photos to store and display your vacation memories, artistic pieces, etc. Thus, it’s a great idea for any avid digital camera user.

Where to go:
There are tons of places online to shop around for a decent priced digital picture frame. The frames can cost a nice amount so consider reading any reviews of products you see and have a sense of how many photos you want to store, among other considerations.

For the shoulder bag obsessed:

People with a fashion for passion must have a high threshold for pain. In a nutshell: fashion is pain…and lots of it. Although there are probably some people who would say I am the furthest thing from a fashionable person, there has been at least one occasion when I was fashion forward and led the trend…qualifier: at least in retrospect.

The purse, or as it is now known, the “bag,” is quite the status symbol and for many people the bigger the better. Well, I was rocking the big (book)bag years before it became a symbol for grandeur and whatnot. And as someone who has suffered for fashion (or really in my case education) I can speak from experience that a great way to help out those friends who love shoulder bags is to give the gift of the shoulder pad. Yes, shoulder pad.

Unfortunately the shoulder pad has fallen out of fashion, as painful style has beat comfort clothing once again. While some 1980s clothing trends are making a huge comeback, sadly the shoulder pad was not invited. But honestly, in today’s culture of big bag torture it’s a must-buy gift for people who tote around a little too much.

Where to go:
Much to my shoulders’ chagrin when searching online for shoulder pads the first few sites that pop up were for football shoulder pads. Now athletic padding should definitely hold up to whatever a purse, I’m sorry, a bag, can hold, but even if you’re going retro you still want it to look semi-stylisg. So, fortunately, I found a site that sales shoulder padding for everyday wear. Yay, for happy, healthy shoulders!

Kathleen Kirkwood “Perfectly Natural” Shoulder Pads
(Image from www.laurensilva.com)

For the privacy prudent bill player

Computers do a lot of stuff, and that makes some people uncomfortable. How do we really know that computers are doing what we need them to do, especially when it comes to sending sensitive information online, e.g. bill paying?

Paying bills is never a fun task—except for maybe that first time of paying bills when you feel responsible and grown-up—so you would think most people would want to get it over quickly, as if somehow if you pay them quickly it costs less money (and it will if we’re adding in interest and whatnot). Yet, there are those people who still cling to the “snail mail” way of paying bills. These people have online bill paying trust issues, as well as a healthy distrust of fellow Internet-users since we have been shown to mess with other people’s computers not only for their financial information but even just for no good reason and with no useful outcome: There are some really random computer viruses out there.

Try as I might to convert some bill-payers to the efficient and eco-friendly online bill-paying method, some people hold fast to gradually obsoleting (Yes, I just made that up, but it works, right? Or, maybe it should have two t’s.) systems. For instance, I still prefer CDs over all this digital music foolishness; I just like having the CD cover artwork even if it’s just a bunch of touched-up photos. Anyway, it’s a sign of support and a kind gesture to provide these Internet wary folks with some stamps. But to up the ante, consider personalized stamps.

Computers do a lot of stuff, and that makes some people uncomfortable. How do we really know that computers are doing what we need them to do, especially when it comes to sending sensitive information online, e.g. bill paying?

Paying bills is never a fun task—except for maybe that first time of paying bills when you feel responsible and grown-up—so you would think most people would want to get it over quickly, as if somehow if you pay them quickly it costs less money (and it will if we’re adding in interest and whatnot). Yet, there are those people who still cling to the “snail mail” way of paying bills. These people have online bill paying trust issues, as well as a healthy distrust of fellow Internet-users since we have been shown to mess with other people’s computers not only for their financial information but even just for no good reason and with no useful outcome: There are some really random computer viruses out there.

Try as I might to convert some bill-payers to the efficient and eco-friendly online bill-paying method, some people hold fast to gradually obsoleting (Yes, I just made that up, but it works, right? Or, maybe it should have two t’s.) systems. For instance, I still prefer CDs over all this digital music foolishness; I just like having the CD cover artwork even if it’s just a bunch of touched-up photos. Anyway, it’s a sign of support and a kind gesture to provide these Internet wary folks with some stamps. But to up the ante, consider personalized stamps.

Where to go:
The monopoly for stamps in the US is held by the US Postal Service. Seriously, I don’t get my stamps anywhere else. But to go the extra mile and provide a personal touch to the personal business of personal finances try gifting personalized stamps. Check out http://www.usps.com/ for more details. There are different companies to choose from in creating your very own stamps. You can put personal photos or messages or even put branded colleges or sports teams’ logos on them. And, just to sweeten the pot even more, you can even put business logos and other advertising on stamps for those Internet wary entrepreneurs and believers in direct mail communication. With all of these ways to customize stamps, it may be worth it to even start a one-of-a-kind stamp collection.

Ah, how wonderful that one little piece of sticky paper can provide so many thoughtful gift opportunities.
The monopoly for stamps in the US is held by the US Postal Service. Seriously, I don’t get my stamps anywhere else. But to go the extra mile and provide a personal touch to the personal business of personal finances try gifting personalized stamps. Check out http://www.usps.com/ for more details. There are different companies to choose from in creating your very own stamps. You can put personal photos or messages or even put branded colleges or sports teams’ logos on them. And, just to sweeten the pot even more, you can even put business logos and other advertising on stamps for those Internet wary entrepreneurs and believers in direct mail communication. With all of these ways to customize stamps, it may be worth it to even start a one-of-a-kind stamp collection.

Ah, how wonderful that one little piece of sticky paper can provide so many thoughtful gift opportunities.

For the sun-lover

There are times when you wish you can run from the sun. Those days when the sun is on full-on blast and the wind has decided to take a break from pushing everything around. Then, on the flip side there are those days when it's all gray--just bleak and windy and you wonder if the sun still exists. Wouldn't it be great to manage your intake of sun-like rays? Honestly, the sun has been shown to improve people's mood so you shouldn't do without it for long periods of time. To give a little sunlight into a sun lover's life consider the gift of the sun lamp.



The sun lamp can serve various purposes. There are some that may be available to assist with tanning, and others are supposed to help with reading by reducing the glare from objects that can cause eye strain. But ultimately, it's just a little twist on a a pretty safe, though admittedly not typical, gift of a lamp. Everyone can use a lamp and they can be easily exchanged.



Where to go:

You can search all over, but if you have an interest in energy efficiency a possible match is a sun lamp by Brookstone, the HappyEyes™ Floor Lamp. This lamp is specifically for reducing glare and thus reducing eye strain. This lamp also comes with a bulb that is supposed to last longer than bulbs of typical voltage.



HappyEyes™ Floor Lamp
(Image from brookstone.com)

For the Laundry-Challenged:

I’m not great at laundry: I don’t separate my whites out so I’m always looking to buy a white shirt or blouse because the one I own is fuchsia on the sleeve. But still, I’m better than other people—I’ve learned the importance of using hot water versus cold water (answer: one causes close to shrink over time, the other doesn’t). Still there’s a lot to the world of laundry to discover. One such wonder I discovered randomly while meandering around a store, because when do you ever see the words “bra” and “baby” together outside of learning about the birds and the bees?

Where to go:
Bed Bath & Beyond and the TV (i.e. infomercials) have a product that resolves the issue of washing your undergarments into oblivion, the Bra Baby™! (Ha ha, it’s even fun to type)

(Image from www.bedbathandbeyond.com)

By encasing a bra in the Bra Baby™ it can help keep the bra from losing its shape or getting snagged on other clothes. Deciding who would be a good candidate for this gift may be tricky since most people don’t share their undergarment washing woes, so in general for people with bras it may be a good fit…figuratively and literally.

For the Board Public Transit Rider, with Little Balance:

I must admit that I am amazed by how some people’s ability to balance. For instance, on a crowded bus or train while I grasp a metal handle, holding on for dear life or rather fleeting embarrassment due to falling over other passengers, other people are standing staunchly, no metal pole in sight, focused on reading the newspaper or text messages or spacing out while listening to music and on and on. It amazes me how some people can balance and do something else at the same time; it is the epitome of multi-tasking. But for those who can’t fold a newspaper and hold onto handle bars on a jerky commute, there is a perfect gift to consider.

Even though it can be self-rejuvenating to spend a commute just being introspective or people-watching, both you and other people can only be so interesting. Distractions are always a welcome form of entertainment and can now be had easily with hand-held devices. But aside from the myriad of cell phone capabilities out there, a thoughtful gift to consider is a hand-held reading device.

Where to go:
Amazon.com (yes, the book-buying—and other things—people) has created the Kindle and Sony created the Sony Reader. I think these devices beat reading on your cellphone with its too-tiny-for-safe-prolonged-reading-screen, or (and I have seen this on public transit and it bugs me) on your laptop which is likely to be cumbersome no matter how light and small it is. Plus, you can download and save books, periodicals, blogs, along with a host of other capabilities, so it may be worth looking into for the bored commuter(s) in your life.

Also, if you check out the Sony Reader demo at http://www.sonystyle.com/ and sign-up for the email newsletter Sony will donate eBook classics (literally electronic books you download) to schools. (s) in your life.

The Kindle by Amazone (Image from tidbits.com)

The Sony Reader (Image from sonystyle.com)

For the Sugar-Tooth who Needs to Ease up on the Sugar:

Isn’t candy tasty? I’m right, right? Who doesn’t love getting candy as a gift? Whom, probably all the people who are worried about their sugar intake (whether diabetic or not) or just people concerned about their nutrition. But even with these health concerns that rein in the desire for the sweet stuff, it’s still there and it has to be satiated every now and then. To tame the wild sugar tooth with sweet treats that won’t hurdle you towards possible sticky health issues or even just eater’s remorse, consider fruit.

The good old fruit basket, as compared to fruit bread, is usually a welcome gift from everyone. People like apples, grapes, bananas, and the like, it’s just a fact. But not all fruit baskets are created equal; they can be homemade, store bought off the shelf, or more customized.

Where to go:
To shop around for a customized fruit basket consider Edible Arrangements® (http://www.ediblearrangements.com/).

An arrangement honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month
(Image from www.ediblearrangements.com)

The cool twist on these fruit baskets is that they’re actually more like fruit bouquets so, as the name implies, there more of a rhyme and reason to how these treats are arranged based on what you want.

For the forgetful (luxury) car owner

Car theft isn’t funny. And honestly that’s true whether you happen to own a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles or a car that would be worth more if it was totaled. Some people have special attachments to their cars, may have a name for it, and other things, but at the base of it all is the good-feeling of having wheels so you can go somewhere…even if you don’t know where.

To protect the car—that prized vessel of mobility—a very thoughtful gift is some type of security system. There are several products out on the market that can fit all types of budgets.

The Products:
LoJack
This is an automotive recovery system that is operated by the police. Check out: http://www.lojack.com/

The Club®
This is an oldie but goodie. I remember my parents using this product (a gift from my uncle). It’s good because it’s visible so at least any potential thieves know they can’t take the car for a spin. Also, there are color options, so try to match the interior if you want or go for a splash of color. Why not? Security can be fabulous too.

(Image from theclub.com)

For those who believe in making an apartment a home (like they own it)

You don’t own an apartment. Case closed. But, for some, it’s hard not to make a rented unit their own by poking a few holes in the walls, letting some spills drip onto the carpet for that genuine “settled in” look, and other things that will keep them from receiving the full reimbursement of their security deposit. So, if you find yourself helping one of those friends who loved their apartment like they owned it, it’s probably a good idea to assist them with more than just moving their love seat down the stairs (though that is very much welcome). Also, help them patch up all the “home sweet home” holes, punctures, and wear and tear they have accumulated while renting.

For those who believe in making an apartment a home (like they own it):
You don’t own an apartment. Case closed. But, for some, it’s hard not to make a rented unit their own by poking a few holes in the walls, letting some spills drip onto the carpet for that genuine “settled in” look, and other things that will keep them from receiving the full reimbursement of their security deposit. So, if you find yourself helping one of those friends who loved their apartment like they owned it, it’s probably a good idea to assist them with more than just moving their love seat down the stairs (though that is very much welcome). Also, help them patch up all the “home sweet home” holes, punctures, and wear and tear they have accumulated while renting.

The Product:
Elmer’s® Renter’s Repair Kit
I actually used this product. One day I unintentionally stripped off a piece of plaster on the wall when trying to adjust a Velcro adhesive strap I was using to mount my cardboard artwork. I was able to adhere the piece of wall back rather nicely, if I may so say myself, using this kit.

(Image from theconsumerlink.com)

Wearing all black is a look that will never go out of style. True, the look may go by different names depending on what circles you’re in: Sometimes it’s a sign of being artsy, while for others it’s a goth look, and so on and so forth. Either way, black is always in and slimming, and, unfortunately, also a friend of lint. Anything and everything that’s floating in the air or on the floor will somehow attach itself to a black article of clothing. Seriously, I never realized how much dust there is in the air until I wear my black blazer because then I’m wearing all that dirt. In a pinch, using pieces of tapes to adhere to the hair and dust bunnies on that black turtleneck may work, but for a thorough cleaning and a truly on point look a must-have for anyone rocking a chic black outfit is a lint brush.

Wearing all black is a look that will never go out of style. True, the look may go by different names depending on what circles you’re in: Sometimes it’s a sign of being artsy, while for others it’s a goth look, and so on and so forth. Either way, black is always in and slimming, and, unfortunately, also a friend of lint. Anything and everything that’s floating in the air or on the floor will somehow attach itself to a black article of clothing. Seriously, I never realized how much dust there is in the air until I wear my black blazer because then I’m wearing all that dirt. In a pinch, using pieces of tapes to adhere to the hair and dust bunnies on that black turtleneck may work, but for a thorough cleaning and a truly on point look a must-have for anyone rocking a chic black outfit is a lint brush.

Where to go:
The lint brush is so useful. Whether it’s an actual brush or just a roll of sticky paper on a handle, it can get rid of all the dust designs overpowering a black top. And due to its rather rudimentary construction it can be found at your local, chain all-purpose retail stores. The lint brush is a great personal grooming buy and as a gift would be thoughtful for someone preparing for an important meeting, interview, or audition. Everyone likes it when someone is making sure they look good.
The lint brush is so useful. Whether it’s an actual brush or just a roll of sticky paper on a handle, it can get rid of all the dust designs overpowering a black top. And due to its rather rudimentary construction it can be found at your local, chain all-purpose retail stores. The lint brush is a great personal grooming buy and as a gift would be thoughtful for someone preparing for an important meeting, interview, or audition. Everyone likes it when someone is making sure they look good.

For the snack-happy telecommuter

There’s nothing like snacking and typing…speaking of which I may want to do that now. Anyway, the problem with doing that is the crunchy noises the keys make when you press them down…not real natural or sanitary. So a great way to deal with the crumbs or other debris that fall between the crevices of keys is a keyboard vacuum. This is especially useful for those people who are nighttime studiers or late-working-folks since midnight brings out the munchies to get that second wind.

A keyboard vacuum is a great way to deal with those stubborn crumbs. And thankfully, you can sometimes get complete computer cleaning kits, because sometimes you just forget not to touch the screen even though you can always zoom in as needed.

Where to go:
My favorite type of store: the office supply store! And of course, electronics stores. In a nutshell: anyplace that sales computers because it makes sense to sell the accessories too.

Some of the things you can find include:
A handy and nifty USB vacuuming device - Mini USB Desktop Keyboard Cleaner

(Image from mcbworld.com)

This is almost the whole kit and caboodle (except no monitor cleaning supplies) - Fellowes Mouse & Keyboard Cleaning Kit

(Image from amazon.com)

For the homebody night owl or the prostrate couch potato

When someone’s obsession is laying around then it’s important that the sedentary lifestyle incorporates proper lumbar support for the lower back…or something like that, I heard it on an exercise DVD. The point is: pillows, pillows, as far as the eye can see.

Pillows make great gifts because people like soft stuff and they can be fancy and set out for specific occasions or practical and appropriate for the wear-and-tear of daily life. The only issue is choosing the right color so it actually fits with something in the gift recipient’s space. That’s why I’m not advocating for all types of pillows. No, there is one in particular that is a must-have for anyone who tries to pull-off the half-laying-down/sitting-up pose on a couch or bed: the husband pillow.

Also known as a bedrest, (but husband pillow is a far cooler name) this embracing cushion will help your gift recipient not go to bed or wake up with back pain and is just all around a good thing to have around when you want to lay your legs down but keep your torso up. Plus, the husband pillow makes a great Valentine companion: Who needs a husband when you’ve got a pillow? Comfortably watch TV or sleep right through the whole holiday.

Where to go:
I think it’s safe to say that anyplace that sales bedding will probably have husband pillows on its shelves, or at least know where to get one.

As stated earlier, pillows, because they are relatively easy to mass-produce, can come customized to fit special occasions. Some prospects:

For the sports-lover: Sports Team Husband Pillow:

(Image from bigflysports.com)

For the finicky homebody-couch potato:

The Bedlounge Husband Pillow (Image from http://www.bedlounge.com/) – This one has a lot of bells and whistles over the traditional type of pillow since you can change its form to fit your position.

The timeless under $20 (usually) gift for the readers out there

Assuming your getting a gift for someone who can read you have a world of gift-giving opportunities available for you in the form of magazine subscriptions. Not to knock books and book certificates, but not everyone is bookish, but I have yet to meet someone who isn’t “magazinish.” Why? Whether you flip through a magazine for the articles or the glossy pictures there are magazines that fit any type within that spectrum. Yes, the same can be said for books too, but the differentiating factor is the disposability of magazines. Have you ever thrown out a book? Maybe, but you possibly felt weird about doing it. There’s no such remorse for disposing of a magazine after a good perusal or two.

Before giving some suggestions on where to get magazine gifts, please note that the odd, not-really-clear-what-that-is picture up top is supposed to be a magazine cover. Sorry, I’m not a graphic designer.

Where to go:
Most mainstream magazines have websites where a gift subscription can be ordered. For small press periodicals you can probably do a search online and get instructions on how to place an order.

A good alternative is to buy a gift subscription box set. The magazines available will be limited and only come from one publishing house, but it takes the guesswork out of the process. The box sets are under $20 and allow the gift-receiver to choose a subscription from a list of several (we’re talking 20 magazines or more). Check out giftscriptions.com

For the Wine & Dine Casanova

I must admit that this idea is coming from an article I read about how to personalize your apartment, but I felt this idea was so amusing that I had to use it for the Gift IdeaList. So, the apartment must-have equipment that I found so amusing: dimmer switch. That’s right for all the single guys and gals out there who like to set the mood or ambience in their own place, a good housewarming gift is a dimmer switch.

In doing research on dimmer switches for this entry I was surprised to learn that the way they work (at least relatively new and modern switches) is by switching the light off and on several times in a second. We can’t sense this switching so it just seems like a steady stream of low intensity light to our eyes. Interesting, right? Anyway, back to the gift at hand.

If you don’t think your gift recipient is too handy and would have some trouble connecting a dimmer to a wall light switch, consider dimmers that can be attached to lamps. These all-in-one dimming packs can easily be attached to stand-along lamps in the new place. No more harsh light bearing down while snoozing after plopping down on the sofa.

Where to go:
Hardware store! Personally, I enjoy being in hardware stores. All the possibilities; the possibilities of a more aesthetically pleasing environment, but I’m not a real DIY type of person so it’s more about giving the appearance of knowing how to build things. Anyway, a hardware store should offer a selection of dimmer switches.

Broan White 4-Function Wall Switch (Image from homedepot.com)
Wall dimmer switches can also be a knob or be a sliding switch (able to change the lighting by moving the switch up and down).

Lutron 300 Watt Plug-In Crendza Lamp Dimmer, Black (Image from homedepot.com)

For the Belated “Thanks-for-letting-crash-at-your-place-for-my-cheap-weekend-excursion” Acknowledgement

The most frugal type of traveling you can do is traveling to places where you know people who will let you stay with them. Hotels are nice, but free lodging is even better. Although it’s customary to greet your host(s) with a gift, sometimes it’s difficult to remember to arrive with a gift when you’re trying to budget for your trip. Never fear, belated gifts have practically become their own industry now since you can buy cute, self-deprecating cards to match the occasion. But because it’s late you’ll have to up the ante on what you give back. A generic box of candies or sparkling something-or-other in a bottle won’t cut it.

A great first part in a two-part gift-giving spree is to take your host out to dinner during the last days of your stay. That’s the first punch. Then the second punch for the KO can come with a gift card showing how indebted you were for your host’s kindness, either in person or through the mail or email. The gift card should show some thoughtfulness behind it. A great way to show your appreciation for the free shelter is to send a gift card from a store that’s in host’s neighborhood, or preferably, that you visited with your host while there. It’s not just a thoughtful gesture but literally a way to repay your room and board, especially if it’s a card for food or furnishings. Those will definitely be welcomed and used.

For the quick-zipping traveler

When I heard about this invention about a year ago I thought it was such a good idea. It’s a new type of luggage where instead of folding your clothes you roll them up. I learned early on that rolling your clothes is a much more efficient way to pack than folding (that’s how I was able to move all my stuff back-and-forth to college), but alas I didn’t think of using that idea to design a new kind of carry-on luggage. The SkyRoll® garment bag is a neat way to stash not only your clothes, but also shoes and toiletries for quick trips. So this would be a great gift for a short excursions traveler who is not so keen on ironing.

Where to go:
Just check the website: http://www.skyroll.com/

Straight from the Home to your Heart: The sounds of your emotion

Audio cassette tapes are long gone and CDs (sadly, in my opinion) are on the outs. But that doesn’t spell the end of the almighty mixtape – that purest vessel of story-telling, emotion, and illegally recording songs and distributing them to someone else. With digital music rising fast, it is actually helping the mixtape making it easier than ever to express your thoughts through other people’s (and maybe your own) music.

The old-fashion way of literally recoding one cassette onto another is still passable, but really it’s all about burning MP3s onto CDs, which can then be played and/or downloaded onto the recipient’s computer.

The mixtape is oftentimes associated with romance, an easy way to set the right mood for an intimate dinner for tow. But don’t underestimate the power of music for other occasions. Mixtapes for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day are great ways to thank your parents on the cheap. And it’s not about putting on songs they like, but rather songs that say thanks and love ya’ lots. There are tons of “I love my mama songs.” You’re more hard-pressed for songs celebrating fathers, but they’re out there and can be found with some creative Internet searching. So have fun with it. Rediscover some favorites and uncover new ones and just express whatever you’re feeling or need to say.

For the arts lover/cheap ticket theater crowd:

Sometimes the late bird catches the worm…or at least gets a few crumbs. OK, that was a little gross. My apologies. But seriously, in the arts world, sometimes the longer you wait the lower the price goes down for a ticket. It isn’t a sure-fire bet, but for those who are patient, they just might get the opportunity to see the latest play getting rave reviews at a fraction of the price as other attendees. The catch? (There has to be one) You are most definitely relegated to the nose-bleed section…unless it’s one of those spaces built so everyone has a decent view. Since there’s no guarantee of that, though, a great gift for those people who frequent theater shows are opera glasses.

Yes, opera glasses may seem froufrou, pretentious, snooty, and whatnot, but hey, they are practical. And sometimes being practical can come off as conceited, as the fellow last row attendees complain, “Why didn’t I think of that?”

Where to go:
There is in fact an operaglasses.com. I don’t know why I’m shocked by that, considering my success in finding the theme songs for little known children’s programs from the early 1980s, but I am. I would say http://www.operaglasses.com/ probably wouldn’t be a bad place to look for, you know, opera glasses and binoculars too (also available at http://www.binoculars.com/)!

The oh-so-chic long-handle opera glasses. (Image of lorgnette opera glasses from operaglasses.com)

Pop-up magnification courtesy of these fold up opera glasses (Image from operaglasses.com)

I’ve also had random run-ins with classy magnifying instruments at the big wholesale stores, like Sam’s Club and Costco. I feel this is a bit of a hit-or-miss option, though.

Another possible source would be stores in you resident theater district. It would only make sense, right? You have to give the people what they need.

For the hospital-ridden:

Lying about in a hospital is no fun. I used to volunteer at a children’s hospital and I saw how hard it was for them. Uno® was usually a huge hit and card games because it doesn’t take a lot of energy and movement to play them. Another option to put on the radar once card games get stale is also an oldie, but goodie: Mad Libs®.

Mad Libs® is a simple game that allows for a little creativity and fun without requiring a lot of supplies and clean-up. Plus there is a variety of Mad Libs® books to choose from, from holiday-themed ones to ones based on movies and TV-shows, or even based on other games (e.g. Operation Mad Libs®).

And don’t just think all these books are aimed at the pre-teen and younger set. There are more adult theme books for older patients who need a little cheering up, including Family Guy Mad Libs® or Adult Mad Libs: Kiss Me, I’m Single®.

(Image from Amazon.com)

Where to go:
Check out the website (http://www.madlibs.com/) to see a full line of products. And of course, because it’s a paper product, you can find a selection at the bookstore.

For the Tender-footed:

Heels aren’t for everyone, especially those nights when you have to walk half a mile to catch a cab after being on your feet for hours. On that particular night, inspiration hit me: collapsible high-heel shoes. I had on flats but my companions’ assortment of wedges, stilettos, and whatever other ways you can pay to put your feet at great, uncomfortable heights, slowed down our travels to a taxi oasis. Anyway, unfortunately my breakthrough idea was a few years late. The collapsible heel has been available for a few years now, though I don’t believe it is readily available in stores.

Where to go:
Collapsible/adjustable height heels can be found at the following site:

CAMiLEON Heels: http://www.camileonheels.com/
You can order directly online or check out the list of stores, by state, that carry the line.

There are also other collapsible heel lines in the works, apparently, but just try searching around to find out about other options for tender-footed, stiletto-loving friends.

The “Declic” a foldable/collapsible heel stiletto made by a design student in the UK in 2004. (Image from CNN.com, International)

For the perpetual “table-for-one” friend

Some people are loners. Whether it’s intentional or not, someone in a restaurant/cafeteria somewhere is eating alone, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But eating alone can be a boring affair, especially if you’re in an establishment with few diversions, whether it be TVs, a boisterous waitstaff, or what have you. A “table-for-oner” may talk on the phone incessantly or bring a book or magazine, but you can put a twist on these stand-bys with an interactive diversion that is quiet (thus allowing for people watching): puzzle books.

Unless you know what type of brainteasers a person likes it might be best to err on the side of variety. Word scrambles, crossword puzzles, riddles, soduku, and whatever other ways we try to stretch our minds are good fare for an entertaining, if not interesting meal.

Where to go:
The usual suspect is the bookstore for the bound, sleek, this-is-going-to-be-teasing-your-mind-for-a-while puzzle book. There are also several puzzle-making companies that can be found online if you have some time to order a unique puzzle book.

This works best as an add-on, trinket gift. Unless the gift-receiver is a hardcore puzzler, then this gift will probably seem a little random and not too thoughtful, or just simple puzzling (I had to work it in). Try presenting it in a pair with something denoting relaxation/taking the time to think things through, such as a nice mug, toiletry set, or just be blatant with a restaurant gift card (usually available right by the cash register at a chain convenience store).

For more spur of the moment giving, cheap, lightweight puzzle compilations can be found in the magazine section of convenience stores. This can be a cute parting gift for someone about to take a little excursion.

For the young family

A picture is worth a thousand words (and memories), but fortunately costs just a fraction of that amount. A gift certificate for a family portrait is a safe bet, especially for families with young kids. People love having tons of shots of their tots.

Even for the families with post-pubescent children a portrait can be a good idea to bring the family together, at least on glossy paper, as each individual’s life is going its separate way (sorry to be so sorrowful).

Where to go:
A good standby for purchasing a solid photo package is the Sears Portrait Studio (http://www.searsportrait.com/). Also look into local photo shops for competitive offerings.

For the job-hunter

Power-suit…Check
Portfolio with paper and pen…Check
Copies of resume…Check
Confidence…confidence? Maybe, check the shoes.
No, it’s not the style of the shoe that matters, but it’s shine. Designer shoes or not, dress shoes don’t mean much if you don’t maintain them. Unlike a dingy sweater that a job-hunter can hide under a sweater (if so obliged), there is no such luck for hiding scrapped up shoes. But instead of buying the interviewing job-hunter some new shoes (definitely a kind gesture, but shoes are a very particular, personal thing since it involves style AND comfort) consider providing a shoe shine kit.

When I started interviewing for jobs I didn’t have one in my possession. The night before the big day I realized how “un-shiny” my favorite, grown-up looking shoes had become. Luckily I was able to borrow someone’s shoe shining kit, so on the big day I had shiny, gleaming shoes…too bad the actual interview wasn’t such a glowing affair (I didn’t get the job), but at least my feet looked good. And they continued looking good as the job hunt continued; I bought my own shoe-shine kit.

Where to go
Shoe shine kits are in most everyday “everything in one place” stores; just ask someone who works there. It will be the basic polish, just black and brown, so no luck for anyone sporting terracotta pumps.

There are also online resources (of course) that can provide a wide variety of products to really prepare a job-hunter for entering any room with the appropriate level of self-confidence and preparedness.

For the baby bird who is just leaving the nest

When you’re starting out on your own there are a ton of thinks to think about and even more things to buy. When it comes to the kitchen, and specifically cooking supplies, one thing will make or break the long-term survival of a newcomer to living on his/her own: the casserole dish.

The glory of the casserole dish will most likely not be immediately evident to the person receiving it, but during those nights when there’s just a smidgen of tomato sauce, half a box of elbow macaroni and a can of creamed corn to be found in the refrigerator and cabinets, the glory of the casserole will be known. (The above is not a recipe for a casserole, but I’m thinking that mixture wouldn’t be half bad). As long as the gift recipient can throw random scraps of food together and bake them (which means s/he can also work an oven), then a casserole dish will be used.

As an added bonus, it may be worthwhile to include a recipe book too. Personally my casserole ideas have usually come from soup cans and the packaging of staple foods like rice and baking/pancake mix, but an actual book will look better then handing the newly-independent a can of cream of potato and a sack of rice.

Where to go
Casserole dishes can be found at:
-Your local grocery store, probably in the baking products aisle
-A full casserole dish set can be found at home life stores or just the houseware section of big, box stores depending on how fancy you’re trying to be:
Bed Bath & Beyond
Target
Etc, etc.

Recipe books can be found everywhere. From a quick Internet search, these titles caught my eye:

The Big Book of Casseroles: 250 Recipes for Serious Comfort Food

(Image from Amazon.com)

Biggest Book of Casseroles

(Image from Amazon.com)

Campbell's 3 Books in 1: 4 Ingredients or Less/Casseroles and One-Dish Meals/Slow Cooker Recipes
(I couldn’t resist. I never understood why creamy soups existed until I understood the casserole)

(Image from Amazon.com)

For the Social-Climber

Nothing says up-and-coming socialite like understanding wine. It’s universally recognized as classy and a sign of being a fancy-pants. (From my description it should be fairly obvious that I am not apart of this up-and-coming sect…at least not yet). So for those buddies who aspire to be the crème-de-la-crème socialite, they better know something about wine. You can offer these buddies wine tasting package, trips to vineyards, and the like if you happen to be incredibly wealthy and/or produce wine yourself. Still, eventually any upwardly social mobile person will have to put in a little self-study to truly be able to break into the “cultured” crowd. A perfect way to help them put their ascent on turbo-speed is to assist them with their wine homework with a wine journal.

With a wine journal a budding connoisseur can keep track of wines s/he has had, impressions of the wines, and the occasion for which they drunketh from their goblet. It can even be a sort of scrapbook for saving labels…oooh, especially if you can get it signed by someone famous.

Where to go

The bookstore! Anything that has paper as it main component can probably be found at the dependable bookstore. With that standard, stationary stores or stores that sale writing products would be another good place to look (Think: Levenger).

A few online resources include:
The Wine Enthusiast (http://www.wineenthusiast.com/)

Wine.com (http://www.wine.com/)

Wine Journal
(Image from wine.com)

There’s also the option of creating a handmade journal. This would be more decorative and personal than store-bought journals, thus showing your support for your buddy in climbing to the top of the social scene (even if you include a few jokes). Socialite or bust!