elfing it

With all the talk about The Apocalypse and "where will you be?" business, I finally gave in and tucked one of these radios in my emergency survival bag, under my bed. Seriously, I do advise one should always be prepared for emergencies. This Eton hand-crank radio also works as a generator - it comes with a built-in cell phone charger, flashlight, and emergency siren. However, for general use, it can also be powered by batteries or AC adapter (included). $50

This is one of the coolest gifts I've discovered this year. A flower growing kit that comes in a tube, and it requires zero skills to grow! That's a nice, safe gifts for anyone. I particularly like the fact it can be given as a great business gift, as well as a personal one. Biotech Blooms does not need attention, except to be admired. No water necessary because the biotechnology does the work for you. When the plant reaches the top of the tube, simply transfer to potting soil. $30

The Buddha Board ($30) is a modern version of the Etch-A-Sketch, but with much more artistic flexibility. It uses water and a bamboo paint brush to sketch water-color style renderings and dries clear for repainting. Great for daily self-expression. What is your mood today? This hour?

This is the gift they will love and despise, each and every morning. Clocky is a little alarm bot clock that runs away from you when you try to hit the snooze button. I know a few people who qualify for this gift, don't you? $45-$50 at Amazon.

This 1.5" photo key chain is the digital version of the photo locket, but with more perks. It can store up to 31 photos on an 8MB flash memory drive. Uses a rechargeable battery and work with PC or MAC.

Great for mom, dad or someone who travels often. Photo album benefits in a small, compact size. $49.99

Know and love someone who is a bit of a stress case? How about a pen that also serves as an aromatherapy stress reducer? Made in Switzerland, this writing instrument contains 100% pure essential oils that can be replaced. Aromatherapy jewel pens, $50

  

Okay, so you can't afford the $500 Electric Cooler Scooter.  I personally think this Collapsible Cooler on Wheels is the next best choice, and it'll cost you only $38 instead. I've decided wheels to transport 36+ beverages is the only way to go. Being collapsible, this unit will take much less space in your garage to store, especially if your lifestyle requires multiples.

More down-to-earth than hippie, these red Peace Mugs make a great gift for the less confrontational friends. The set of four is $38 at Sundance.

These gorgeous John Derian plates are handmade in New York by Derian, with assistance from a small group of artisans.  Derian uses decoupage, the art of cutting and gluing paper to surfaces, to create designs of antique images and letters. Single plates can be given as a great collectible or sets of plates can be given as highly functional dinnerware. The $44-$48 cost is quite reasonable for their artisan quality and unique designs. The Red Letter Plates are 5-3/4" and go for $44-$48. They can be purchased at at JohnDerian or ShopatGood.

My other favorite Derian picks...

5-3/4" Plates $48

 

 

 

 

 When they announced a gift exchange for no more than $15, you thought to yourself, "Whoat?!? That's equivalent to three cups of Starbucks coffee. What can one buy for $15?"

Surprisingly, I've found some killer beanies ranging from $11 to $40. They're super fun, and they're quite useful during the winter months.  Even better, most likely you will not see a duplication of this gift in the near future.

Edward Elric Cosplay Beanie, $13.99

Amazon

 

 

 

 

 Alphose Elric Cosplay Beanie, $11.99

Amazon

 

 

Klops Fleece Hat, $40
Creature Co-op

 

 

 

clubNAMCO

 

 

 

 

Okay, I cheated again. Not a beanie, but a great fleece hat though... 

Ninja Bunny Hat/Mask. $40
BunnyWarez

 

 

Leopard Kitty Hat, $25
BunnyWarez