Shopping for your peeps
(see below for Giving to your Gal.)

Great gift ideas that wont break the bank

By Carolyn V. Mill

Writeable CDs, Rechargeable Batteries & Memory Cards

Depending on what level of geekdom the people in your life have achieved, they could all use a little more freedom to play with, so how about some easily mailable digital storage cards or a usb flash drive. For music, pictures or backing up your system, media storage is a ever expanding need in our lives. Photo junkies will appreciate more space to store pix when on the move or vacationing. Think multi-gig. Believe me when I say technology is the new black.

Peace of body, spirit, mind

For the stressed out or health conscious person, try giving them a comfortable way to better living with a snappy new and super thick Yoga Mat, balance ball and/or fitness classes. This will help them keep any New Year's resolutions and chill out at the same time. Just drop by your local yoga school - they are everywhere now - or order one online at yogagifts.ca. Better yet, cut back on carcinogens and look good doing it with a stainless steel water bottle from SIGG or LAKEN, available in gorgeous and gregarious designs at your local outfitter. They may seem expensive, but will outlast the snow and show you really care about their ongoing good health.

Things few make in the morning sense

For the caffeine addict in your life try a Bodum (otherwise known as the French press) and a bag of quality coffee. Many folks are still making their morning java in a smelly old drip machine they got for Christmas six years ago - and waiting quite a while for it to boot. Why not treat them to the quick and tasty delights of a convenient coffee press, ensuring they invite you over for a 'good' cup of coffee this time. Best bet is to head to Starbucks and grab one in bachelor or family size (sociopolitical concerns aside -they do know their beans).

The story of their life - or at least their week

Wouldn't it be nice if you could remember all those little ideas and such without having to find a pen and paper? How about start writing that book you always meant to get around to? A Digital Voice Recorder could certainly help the would be autobiographer get started, or that busy mom stay organized about her life on the move. You can even send mp3s of your up-close and personal conversations to friends and family overseas with a little USB to computer action. A great way to help folks recall the otherwise forgotten. Sony, Olympus, RCA and Panasonic all have affordable entry level models.
http://www.futureshop.ca

Everyone loves a Winner

Look like a winner by giving them EXACTLY what they want. Gift certificates and phone cards seem like an easy way out of choosing the perfect gift, but they're one of the few offerings that actually make perfect possible. Best bets? Many fashion savvy gals wouldn't mind a few Boxing Day bucks to spend at Winners. Certificates from Chapters/Indigo for music and books mean you don't have to guess which titles they already have. Hard to buy for teens could find a way to blow bucks chatting to friends or going to a movie theatre. Either way, you can't go wrong by letting them choose, and it won't get returned or hidden like last year's gift.

http://www.winners.ca/en/giftcards.asp

http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/giftcards/

If they win, you win

Lottery tickets are another easy way out, but a great idea for a couple of reasons. Much like a gift certificate these travel well in the mail at a time when packages might be held up at the post office. One size fits all. Pretty much everybody would like a chance at winning a lifetime of ease, even if it is a temporary dream. YOu could even get them a yearly subscription so they don't have to remember to play their numbers. And I can't help thinking that if they did win, most would be happy to share a little with the Santa that sent it (the selfish elf strikes again!). Be sure they sign the back of the ticket.

http://www.olg.ca
http://www.bclc.com

Everybody wins

Grandparents, those struggling with illness, the socially active, or anyone really, will appreciate your intentions when you send them a wee card that lets them know you've donated in their name. Truly the gift that keeps giving - all causes available.

Shopping for your gal

Treat your girl right this season and reap the rewards all year long

By Carolyn V. Mill

Open up and say Spa

For the woman who really deserves it, two words: Spa Day. Look like the prince you are by making sure she gets the royal treatment. Can't go wrong here fellas, a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, salt scrub, or any combination will go over very well. Remind her she can exchange the treatment on the certificate for exactly what she wants. And be sure to be home when she gets back from her delightfully long day as a princess.

Counting for your Queen

Nothing says lux like high thread count sheets in her favourite colour. As high as you can afford, and Egyptian cotton is best. Don't think numbers matter? Well just wait until you slip between these silky good times, you wont want to go back to anything under 300 again. Just be sure to check her bed size first, their should be a little label somewhere. This one benefits the giver as much as the receiver.

Sing before Supper

Busy boy? Well then, a deluxe date is in order. Tickets for a romantic night out says "I have time for you", tucked in a handwritten card presented with flowers in hand. Pick something you wouldn't normally be jumping up and down to see, such as an opera or a sappy musical. And dress sharp when the time comes - we have so few occasions to where our little black dress and sparkly things.

Your relationship just getting started and don't want to freak her out?

Say my Name

Let your power babe know you're not intimidated by her success with a swank business card holder. Feel free to get it engraved with her initials or logo. She will think of her supportive man every time she hands out her number, promoting her fabulousness AND cutting down on trysts in the process!

Scent of a Woman

For the girly girl who needs to indulge even more, skip the chocolates and go for essential oils. Anything lavender is the last word in smellies these days. But go for quality. The truth is these are really expensive compared to drugstore items, so we feel guilty spending that much on our daily rituals. Show her you think she's worth it. Avalon Organic Botanicals has a fabulous line of products and gift sets - you can find them in most health food stores.

Little something from the King

Show that you are not the jealous kind by dedicating The Presley Sessions to her playlist. A fifties era tribute to her much missed Elvis Aaron, this Canadian made collection features the intimate crooning of singer songwriter and Vinyl Cafe regular Reid Jamieson at his swoon-worthy best.

One last thing...the card...dont forget the card. Do more than just sign it. Get personal, and you will be glad you gave.