‘Tis the season for good food, family gatherings, and gift giving. From a stylish tote to the latest game, this year’s guide offers affordable items for everyone on your list. It’s full of gifts that are fun yet practical. What’s more, they’re easy to use and even easier to give.
Carry in style
The clunky heap of black padding she once used to transport her laptop can be a thing of the past. Give her a more stylish option. Soleil’s water-resistant April laptop bag was designed to hold a 12″ notebook computer, with plenty of pockets for a cell phone and other accessories. Best of all, it comes equipped with AirSHIELD gel impact protection system.
E-mail sales@eradian.com to place an order; $89.99
Heard any good books lately?
Instead of curling up, bookworms can take their lit to go. The Playaway self-playing digital audio book
Let the games begin
This Sudoku Glass Tabletop Set is a sophisticated alternative to the traditional pen and paper game. Numbered glass pieces, 90 in all, complement the glass tabletop and can be stored in a felt pouch when not in use. Sudoku lovers will appreciate the 100 puzzles with three levels of difficulty. The set also includes a leather carrying case for storage. www.sharperimage.com; $49.95
Can I get your number?
Know someone who lost their cell phone and, with it, their entire address book? Well, those days are over thanks to this tiny device that allows users to back
History in the making
Listen to the New Testament as voiced by Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Kirk Franklin, and other notable African Americans. The cast of Inspired By … The Bible Experience totals more than 200, as each celebrity portrays a specific Bible character. This inspirational product is available in either mp3 or audio CD format, making it a perfect way for busy professionals to feed their souls.
www.inspiredby.com/Bible Experience.htm; $34.99–$49.99
Java fusion
Loved ones can brew their favorite coffees, teas, cappuccinos, and lattes in just seconds
A new kind of blend
Make refreshing smoothies, tangy salsas, or delicious dips in minutes with Tribest’s Personal Blender. Convenient for home, work, and travel, this blender whips, chops, and crushes with ease as a result of its 200-watt motor. Plus it’s great for those on the go since its two blending containers double as drinking or serving cups, and each comes with its own lid for easy transport. www.tribestlife.com; $59.99
Cigar box
Cigar aficionados will love these compact humidors. A built-in humidification system keeps cigars fresh while traveling across town or across the country. The combination of the stainless steel cutter and water pipette make a nice finishing touch. Available in four colors, Cigar Pockets are perfect for storage in the car, home, or office. www.skymall.com
Fine wine
Here’s a gift for those who love the links but find their swing comes up short. Despite its name, the Grumpy Golfer Wine Caddy will bring lots of laughter to their dinner table. The sculpture, made from recycled steel and copper, securely holds a 750 ml bottle of wine and doubles as a great conversation piece.
www.skymall.com; $69.95
Charge this!
Are cables and cords creating too much clutter? Buy the Mahogany Charging Station, an all-in-one organizer designed to store and charge cell phones, PDAs, iPods, and more simultaneously. A concealed six-outlet surge protector powers electronics while keeping everything neat. The top of the organizer holds up to four devices, while drawers and slots provide a home for keys and other small items.
www.frontgate.com; $199