It’s the time of the year when your thoughts turn to things other people might want, or need. It’s a luxury in itself to be able to look at things in cyberspace and read what experiences others have had. It’s hard to remember that fifteen or so years ago, there was no online shopping; just individual catalogs made from dead trees and no way to Google ideas or read hundreds of Amazon reviews about products. Now you can. Instead of starting up your car in the cold and having to search for a parking place at the local mall, try just taking your time and looking to see what would really surprise someone and give them pleasure.
Children – holidays are all about children. They are the ones who receive the most gifts, but sometimes they can be overwhelmed by so many new things that they end up not having the time to appreciate everything. Something that catches their eye and stimulates their curiosity; not the same Buzz Lightyear or Lightning McQueen that they’ve seen so many times. The Darda cars and the Kikkerland Wind-Up Toys are the right size for a child’s small hands and immediately DO things: pull back the cars and watch them zip, wind up the clockwork toys and see the action. For long-term play value, it’s tough to beat LEGO (any LEGO) or the Automoblox series of toy cars.
Men – Hmmm, what would you buy for someone like famous editor Maxwell Perkins, the Man Who Has Everything? I’d say the number one crowd pleaser for someone who has a fireplace would be the Johnny Beard Bellows, a handmade, reasonably priced piece of genuine folk art that incidentally works extremely well for its intended purpose. The California Car Duster is something that will get used over and over and its happy recipient will think of you every time he wonders how he managed without one. Another item that’s likely to impress is the Joos Orange Solar Charger, the current state of the art in green gadgetry.
Women – For the big-ticket items, like furs or jewelry, you’re kind of on your own. Make sure you know what she really likes. There’re lots of thoughtful little stocking stuffers that will definitely come in handy: Mac Lip Color, Kiehl’s Lip Balm and Sephora Hair Elastics are all sure to please.
