elfing it

A memoir that is more of a guide to many lost pastime arts, like how to tan a skin or palm a coin or learn the Latin phrases that every boy should know. Or a collection of wisdom about useless skills such as how to write in invisible ink - along with useful skills, like how a boy can prepare himself for his inevitable encounters with girls.

The Dangerous Book for Boys, $15

Whether it's how to turn a perfect cartwheel or an answer to the eternal mystery of what boys are thinking (assuming they are, in fact, thinking)... This book is a manual for everything a girl needs to know.

I know, I know. It doesn't sound daring whatsoever. The publishers did promise adventures, so maybe...

Daring Book for Girls, $15

Note, do not send her the actual gadget to make I Love You Toasts.  It's best if you receive it yourself and surprise her with toast in person (with breakfast in bed, if she could be so lucky).  All you have to do is press the stamp onto the hot bread, and voila, love is there right in front of you.  $3

Bring up the topic of commitment and babies at Valentine's Day breakfast and wait for that silent panic. Then serve him his Please Help Me Toasts ($3).  Maybe he'll appreciate the 'laugh with you' humor?

Then bring up the topic of commitment and babies again.

Fred wants huge, manly shoulders and pecs. What did you think 'huge' described, huh? Lift Salt + Pepper Shakers could also work as a gentle reminder for getting back to the gym. $15

When she was busy dreaming of the room made of chocolate, he was dreaming of his own chocolate heaven. Let's put it this way - there's no sleeping in his chocolate heaven. The Chocolate Body Paint comes with paint brush for $20.

A great way to send a Thank You note... A message on a bean. This kit contains one Magic Bean that will grow with a pre-embossed message on a leaf. $15

At first I thought the light was so you can see what you're drinking... Most likely you will have water in this bottle, and most likely, you are out-and-about. When I'm out-and-about, I am usually with a large group of friends, even if it's on a camping trip. This thought made me realize why I like this water bottle so much. I will be able to easily identify my bottle from others, because mine will be illuminating. I've had my water bottle taken by accident at night. It's a bummer, especially if you are really thirsty. $25

As far as mini-things go, this micro LED lantern is on the top of my favorites list. It's so darn cute! $12.95

It's bright enough to light up a tent (I haven't tested yet, but I have a feeling it's very dim lighting.). Lasts 25 hours of continuous use. Even has emergency strobe light capablity. What a fun stocking stuffer.

This pocket-sized waterproof first aid kit has just the right few things to make it a decent outdoors companion. $6.95

Comes with three sizes of bandages, antiseptic towelettes, alcohol pads, sting relief pad, gauze and more. Waterproof ABS case has an O-ring and is attached to a nylon cord with a carabiner.

This is one of the most clever little inventions this decade. The Gorillapod is a flexible mini-tripod that can twist and turn and hang and grip.

It is so brilliant, I can't believe it took so long for someone to think of it. Made to support small digital cameras, it can stand on almost any surface, flat or not. And if situation calls for it, Gorillapod will wrap itself around a tree branch upside-down so you can get your perfect photo. I think it likes to be challenged. $20

I've always been a fan of these glass teapots, ever since I've seen them introduced at the MOMA more than a decade ago. I'm glad they've come down in price (back then they were $150 for one). They are especially perfect for flowering teas (next post). $23