While online and retail holiday shopping sales have met or exceeded
expectations for most retailers in 2005, there is another "rush" for all
retailers to prepare for: gift card redemption.
According to
Hitwise, an online intelligence service, the market share of U.S.
Internet searches containing the words "gift card" was up 32% for the
week ending December 10, 2005 as compared to the previous week. In fact,
the National Retail Federation expects gift card sales to increase 6.6%
this holiday season to 18.48 billion dollars, with consumers spending
an average of $88 dollars on gift cards or 15.6% of their holiday
shopping budget.
Gift certificates have always been a popular
gift choice for the hard to please recipient or even for the lazy
shopper. For the gift giver, it allows a quick purchase at whatever
store or online merchant they select, with a dollar amount that fits
their budget. For the recipient, they can select what they want from a
particular merchant and for the most part use the card at their
convenience.
But for some, giving a gift card is a cop-out,
reasoning it is too impersonal and opting to hand pick a gift and
selecting something special and unique for a loved one or friend.
However, for some, the gift card is the ideal gift choice, with family
or friends even suggesting the store or online merchant they prefer.
For
the merchants, it has extended the holiday shopping season because they
cannot record the sale until the recipient uses the gift card to make a
purchase. This holds down sales figures in November and December, but
provides a boost in January when most cards are redeemed. An additional
boost is provided by the fact that most of the shoppers who redeem their
gift cards typically spend 15% to 50% more than the face value of the
card when they select their holiday gift.
There are some downsides to gift cards. Some retailers clear unused gift
cards off the books by subtracting off of the face value of the card,
an inactivity fee (usually $2.50 per month) after a certain amount of
time. Some gift cards have an expiration date and others come with
special conditions or restrictions. However, consumer outrage has
prompted many states across the country to introduce legislation
limiting or banning the fees. Additionally, there is no federal law on
gift cards but, two Republican congressmen, Joe Barton of Texas and
Charlie Bass of New Hampshire, have requested that the Federal Trade
Commission investigate the way retailers conduct their gift card
programs.
Is giving a gift card too impersonal? Is it the best
gift choice? That question is up for debate and is a personal
preference. But with annual gift card sales projected to reach 90
billion dollars by 2007 (Ernst & Young 2005), the gift card is here
to stay.
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Gift Basket Heaven
I love receiving gifts, and let's face it...who on earth doesn't.
Getting flowers from my husband always makes me feel special. The cards I
get from the kids on my birthday and the holidays are precious to me.
Still, there is one gift I look forward to more than any other. I have
an aunt who I have always been very close to and who sends me a gift
basket every year for Christmas. In over ten years of receiving gift
baskets from her, I have never had the same basket twice and I have
never felt anything less than sheer joy over what she sends. I have had
gourmet gift baskets of meats, cheeses and crackers, chocolate gift
baskets, wine gift baskets, home spa products baskets and many others. I
guess I just really enjoy the fact that it's so many gifts in one.
There's something incredibly special about opening a gift and being
presented with a wonderful array of products to choose from.
No matter what the theme is, I feel like a kid in a candy store. Each year, the hardest thing for me to decide is what to try first. Over the years, I have come to look forward to and enjoy the gift baskets more than any other gift I receive. Last Christmas, my aunt ordered the basket late and it arrived a few days after the holiday. Despite all the wonderful gifts I received from friends and family, I really missed having a gift basket. It felt as though something I enjoyed so much for so long was absent. When it finally arrived, it was like Christmas all over again for me. Since my aunt started sending me gift baskets over a decade ago, I have sent her one each year as well. We always talk after the holidays about what we enjoyed the most. I think we're both addicted to them. In recent years, I started sending them to other friends and family. Never before have I felt so sure that my gifts were well received as I do now.
Everyone seems to love them and I get a lot praise over my choices. I think people enjoy sampling items that they might not think to buy or that are unavailable is a real treat. Personally, one of my all time-favorites was a selection of Swiss chocolates that were better than anything I'd ever tasted here in the States. I still think that if I had never tasted them, I wouldn't know just how delicious chocolate could be.
The next time you are wondering what to send for a gift, I recommend a gift basket. You'll be surprised at how much it will be appreciated and enjoyed.
No matter what the theme is, I feel like a kid in a candy store. Each year, the hardest thing for me to decide is what to try first. Over the years, I have come to look forward to and enjoy the gift baskets more than any other gift I receive. Last Christmas, my aunt ordered the basket late and it arrived a few days after the holiday. Despite all the wonderful gifts I received from friends and family, I really missed having a gift basket. It felt as though something I enjoyed so much for so long was absent. When it finally arrived, it was like Christmas all over again for me. Since my aunt started sending me gift baskets over a decade ago, I have sent her one each year as well. We always talk after the holidays about what we enjoyed the most. I think we're both addicted to them. In recent years, I started sending them to other friends and family. Never before have I felt so sure that my gifts were well received as I do now.
Everyone seems to love them and I get a lot praise over my choices. I think people enjoy sampling items that they might not think to buy or that are unavailable is a real treat. Personally, one of my all time-favorites was a selection of Swiss chocolates that were better than anything I'd ever tasted here in the States. I still think that if I had never tasted them, I wouldn't know just how delicious chocolate could be.
The next time you are wondering what to send for a gift, I recommend a gift basket. You'll be surprised at how much it will be appreciated and enjoyed.
The Beauty Of A Holiday
There are many things that I love about life. I love the fact that we were given eyes to see, ears to hear, and mouths to speak and to taste amazing food. I love it that I can see things in color and that I can experience beauty all around me just by going for a walk outside. I'm glad that we are able to work to provide for ourselves and that we can work doing things we enjoy. One of the things in life that I love the most, however, is a good holiday.
I love a good holiday because they don't happen everyday. A holiday is a unique day that is set aside to celebrate a wide variety of things. And I enjoy this. I enjoy the anticipation of an upcoming holiday like almost nothing else in the world. Everyone who knows me well knows that I get giddy and excited nearly a week before any holiday is approaching.
I love a good holiday because it means that normal life gets to be put on hold and that we can spend a day relaxing and enjoying the best things in life with the people we love the most. There is nothing better than sleeping in or getting up early with the knowledge that the entire day is devoted to hanging out with people and relaxing. That is the beauty of a holiday.<
If you don't feel this excitement about the approach of a holiday than I'll suggest that maybe you have the wrong view of what a holiday is all about. You cannot let yourself work through a holiday as if it were any other day, nor can you spend a holiday alone. No. A holiday is meant to be enjoyed in a community of people. So before the next holiday approaches you need to plan a party and gather all of the people you know. Plan on having a totally relaxing and fun day together. Organize games, movies or just time for good conversation.
The beauty of a holiday is that we get to slow down and remember that we are not machines and that are lives are valuable and worth being lived fully. We get to spend time on what matters most, not on our work or on the things that keep us busy throughout the week. So make a commitment now to enjoy whatever holiday rolls around next. You won't be sorry, and you just might make a habit of it.
I love a good holiday because they don't happen everyday. A holiday is a unique day that is set aside to celebrate a wide variety of things. And I enjoy this. I enjoy the anticipation of an upcoming holiday like almost nothing else in the world. Everyone who knows me well knows that I get giddy and excited nearly a week before any holiday is approaching.
I love a good holiday because it means that normal life gets to be put on hold and that we can spend a day relaxing and enjoying the best things in life with the people we love the most. There is nothing better than sleeping in or getting up early with the knowledge that the entire day is devoted to hanging out with people and relaxing. That is the beauty of a holiday.<
If you don't feel this excitement about the approach of a holiday than I'll suggest that maybe you have the wrong view of what a holiday is all about. You cannot let yourself work through a holiday as if it were any other day, nor can you spend a holiday alone. No. A holiday is meant to be enjoyed in a community of people. So before the next holiday approaches you need to plan a party and gather all of the people you know. Plan on having a totally relaxing and fun day together. Organize games, movies or just time for good conversation.
The beauty of a holiday is that we get to slow down and remember that we are not machines and that are lives are valuable and worth being lived fully. We get to spend time on what matters most, not on our work or on the things that keep us busy throughout the week. So make a commitment now to enjoy whatever holiday rolls around next. You won't be sorry, and you just might make a habit of it.
Summertime Fun For The Entire Family
For most people, summer brings with it warmer weather, longer days and special family activities. According to Donna Erickson, family lifestyle expert and author of the book "Fabulous Funstuff for Families," families can make the most of the season by enjoying simple outdoor fun together.
"Summer is the perfect time to disconnect from cell phones and computers and really embrace the outdoors," said Erickson. "Whether planning a camping trip in the wilderness or one in your own backyard, spending time together as a family will be entertaining and memorable."
While planning technology-free family outings might seem daunting, parents should consider the following suggestions to enjoy what the summer has to offer:
• While hiking through the woods or simply exploring the backyard, design a couture nature bracelet. Wrap a strip of wide masking tape inside-out on your child's wrist and let him/her attach treasures, such as a tiny leaf, twig or dandelion, for a delightful souvenir.
• Have your children help create a campfire. Turn the chore of searching for kindling and wood into an A-B-C game. Challenge your kids to scout around for fallen twigs and branches in the shape of letters to spell their names. For letters that they cannot find, have them create the missing shape by arranging rocks or branches.
• Enjoy the quintessential campfire treat-S'mores. The classic combination of marshmallow, graham cracker and Hershey's Milk Chocolate has defined outdoor adventures for nearly 80 years. With a few new ingredients and a little creativity, family members can personalize S'mores to their own tastes. For a unique twist, add peanut butter and jelly or top a cinnamon graham cracker with apricot jam and coconut sprinkles. For more delicious recipe ideas, visit www.smoresfun.com.
• Don't let a rainy day spoil your summer fun. Simply bring the magic of summertime indoors. Have your children bring their sleeping bags in the family room for an indoor campout complete with storytelling and S'mores toasted in the fireplace or over the stove. Your children can make play binoculars by gluing two bathroom tissue tubes together along the sides, painting them with poster paint and adding a string neckband. Then, hide toys and stuffed animals around the house for an indoor safari.
"Summer is the perfect time to disconnect from cell phones and computers and really embrace the outdoors," said Erickson. "Whether planning a camping trip in the wilderness or one in your own backyard, spending time together as a family will be entertaining and memorable."
While planning technology-free family outings might seem daunting, parents should consider the following suggestions to enjoy what the summer has to offer:
• While hiking through the woods or simply exploring the backyard, design a couture nature bracelet. Wrap a strip of wide masking tape inside-out on your child's wrist and let him/her attach treasures, such as a tiny leaf, twig or dandelion, for a delightful souvenir.
• Have your children help create a campfire. Turn the chore of searching for kindling and wood into an A-B-C game. Challenge your kids to scout around for fallen twigs and branches in the shape of letters to spell their names. For letters that they cannot find, have them create the missing shape by arranging rocks or branches.
• Enjoy the quintessential campfire treat-S'mores. The classic combination of marshmallow, graham cracker and Hershey's Milk Chocolate has defined outdoor adventures for nearly 80 years. With a few new ingredients and a little creativity, family members can personalize S'mores to their own tastes. For a unique twist, add peanut butter and jelly or top a cinnamon graham cracker with apricot jam and coconut sprinkles. For more delicious recipe ideas, visit www.smoresfun.com.
• Don't let a rainy day spoil your summer fun. Simply bring the magic of summertime indoors. Have your children bring their sleeping bags in the family room for an indoor campout complete with storytelling and S'mores toasted in the fireplace or over the stove. Your children can make play binoculars by gluing two bathroom tissue tubes together along the sides, painting them with poster paint and adding a string neckband. Then, hide toys and stuffed animals around the house for an indoor safari.
Ideal CHRISTMAS Gift - No Matter What Age Everyone Loves This
Want to put a smile on a loved one's face or hear the laughter ring out from the kiddies on Christmas day. Well the first move is to get it right when choosing their presents. How nice for you to hold an ear to ear grin all because this year you chose the ideal gift for the family. Deciding on what is right for each individual can cause unnecessary stress and worry to the build up to Christmas.
Xmas is a happy/joyous event where we celebrate our lords being. Jesus is a very special person in our life, an out of sight lodger in our thoughts and always in our heart who gave us all those close people in our lives.
How many times have you had to return goods that were not the right size/color? How many people thank you for that unwanted gift that they never get to use.
Lets us get into the Christmas spirit today by getting it right. You have enough worry with a shopping list as long as your arm and a credit card bill that you may well be still paying off into the New Year.
Then there's the slaving over a hot stove, presents have to be wrapped and at the end of this hectic schedule you are expected to smile on December the 25th.
What gift can you give to please every member of the family or lover with a guarantee to put a smile on their face?
It does not take Einstein to figure this out.
Item number 1 on a Christmas list to give is a holiday. This way you the bringer of joy gets to celebrate too.
The Christmas festive season is celebrated all over the world so why not enjoy your Xmas on a beach. Millions travel at this time of year because they find it very cost effective when giving all people close to them a Christmas they will never forget
Guarantees are priceless when they come in the form of a smile. Have you ever seen an unhappy holiday maker?
In some cases parents are taken for granted by the kids and are never given a minute thought all because they are busy opening presents. Well that ends on holiday when the kids smother you with hugs and kisses thanking you for the best Christmas ever.
What do you give the kids on Christmas day abroad? A bucket/spade. What to give your lover? A date for your wedding. Grandparents will just love not having to wrap up for warmth.
It is far cheaper to spend Christmas abroad than stay at home. Recap on your list of Christmas duties.
Shopping/Christmas presents/ decorations/lights to be erected/turkey needs stuffing/ trifle to be made/tree and baubles /wrap presents and on top of all this the worry of having forgotten anything.
Get it right and get away.
The best Christmas gift you can give to your self is the satisfying feeling that you got it right.
Xmas is a happy/joyous event where we celebrate our lords being. Jesus is a very special person in our life, an out of sight lodger in our thoughts and always in our heart who gave us all those close people in our lives.
How many times have you had to return goods that were not the right size/color? How many people thank you for that unwanted gift that they never get to use.
Lets us get into the Christmas spirit today by getting it right. You have enough worry with a shopping list as long as your arm and a credit card bill that you may well be still paying off into the New Year.
Then there's the slaving over a hot stove, presents have to be wrapped and at the end of this hectic schedule you are expected to smile on December the 25th.
What gift can you give to please every member of the family or lover with a guarantee to put a smile on their face?
It does not take Einstein to figure this out.
Item number 1 on a Christmas list to give is a holiday. This way you the bringer of joy gets to celebrate too.
The Christmas festive season is celebrated all over the world so why not enjoy your Xmas on a beach. Millions travel at this time of year because they find it very cost effective when giving all people close to them a Christmas they will never forget
Guarantees are priceless when they come in the form of a smile. Have you ever seen an unhappy holiday maker?
In some cases parents are taken for granted by the kids and are never given a minute thought all because they are busy opening presents. Well that ends on holiday when the kids smother you with hugs and kisses thanking you for the best Christmas ever.
What do you give the kids on Christmas day abroad? A bucket/spade. What to give your lover? A date for your wedding. Grandparents will just love not having to wrap up for warmth.
It is far cheaper to spend Christmas abroad than stay at home. Recap on your list of Christmas duties.
Shopping/Christmas presents/ decorations/lights to be erected/turkey needs stuffing/ trifle to be made/tree and baubles /wrap presents and on top of all this the worry of having forgotten anything.
Get it right and get away.
The best Christmas gift you can give to your self is the satisfying feeling that you got it right.
Solving Holiday Shopping Woes
Finding the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for husband, sister-in-law, nephew or pal is an annual challenge for holiday shoppers. Searching through shopping malls or clicking through hundreds of Web sites can dampen even the highest holiday spirits.
Now at FindGift.com, gift-givers can connect with unique finds like OneShare.com, where you can buy a beautifully framed individual share of stock in one of 130 U.S. public companies. This gift doesn't require batteries or assembly, won't wear out, is never the wrong size and lasts a lifetime. The frames are engraved with the company's services, products, characters and history.
New parents or first-time grandparents, for example, can celebrate a child's first Christmas with a first share of Disney stock. Instead of a box of golf balls, golf lovers will appreciate a share of Callaway stock. If you have a biker on your list, you can honor his alter ego with a share of Harley-Davidson stock. And for mothers, a share of Tiffany & Co. or Martha Stewart is sure to please.
Shoppers can purchase one share of stock for $39, plus the price of the stock as listed on the stock exchange, in less than three minutes. Frame choices range from a complimentary hard matte paper frame to wood or brushed metal frames from $34 to $75. You can further personalize the gift with a special message on the frame's plaque.
This holiday season, OneShare will donate 1 percent (approximately $1) of each stock sold through Dec. 31, 2005 to benefit Women for Women International. Founded in 1993, the organization helps women in war-torn regions rebuild their lives by giving them financial and emotional support, vocational training, rights awareness, education and access to capital for business development.
Now at FindGift.com, gift-givers can connect with unique finds like OneShare.com, where you can buy a beautifully framed individual share of stock in one of 130 U.S. public companies. This gift doesn't require batteries or assembly, won't wear out, is never the wrong size and lasts a lifetime. The frames are engraved with the company's services, products, characters and history.
New parents or first-time grandparents, for example, can celebrate a child's first Christmas with a first share of Disney stock. Instead of a box of golf balls, golf lovers will appreciate a share of Callaway stock. If you have a biker on your list, you can honor his alter ego with a share of Harley-Davidson stock. And for mothers, a share of Tiffany & Co. or Martha Stewart is sure to please.
Shoppers can purchase one share of stock for $39, plus the price of the stock as listed on the stock exchange, in less than three minutes. Frame choices range from a complimentary hard matte paper frame to wood or brushed metal frames from $34 to $75. You can further personalize the gift with a special message on the frame's plaque.
This holiday season, OneShare will donate 1 percent (approximately $1) of each stock sold through Dec. 31, 2005 to benefit Women for Women International. Founded in 1993, the organization helps women in war-torn regions rebuild their lives by giving them financial and emotional support, vocational training, rights awareness, education and access to capital for business development.
What Gals Really Want For Christmas!
Okay, guys: listen up! I am here to tell you what women want for Christmas. You probably already know it, but you don't understand it. What am I saying? Well, those little ads that have been mysteriously popping up on your dresser, on your workbench, or plastered to the windshield of your truck did not get there by accident. Somebody who wants you to pay close attention to what she really wants put it there. You don't think the wind blew it there do you? Oh, please! Let's go down the list and find out what your lady really wants for Christmas. I abbreviated everything for clarity and to be concise. That means the 27 items she really wants are condensed to just five. Get it?
1. Jewelry – You had to ask? What woman doesn't want something shiny to wear on her fingers, around her neck, her wrist, her anklet, her belly button…Okay, I'm not talking custom jewelry either. I'm talking about something that will retain its shine in all weather conditions and can be counted in the number of karats it possesses. You can count on it setting you back at least through the following June, probably as late as Thanksgiving…
2. Chocolate – Milk chocolate just doesn't cut it, fellas. Better for you to pick it up by the brand: Peregina, Godiva, and Richart are a few that come to mind. Yeah, get her the little stocking stuffer Santa chocolates too. She'll think that you are being real sweet!
3. To the Islands! Okay, time to splurge. Go all out and book that early February vacation to Paradise. You know you will need it by time that the 17th measurable snowstorm plasters your driveway. Oh, by the way, no matter how much she thinks that the kids should come along, make arrangements with your parents to come and spend the week at your house. If the kiddies come down with the flu at least they will be in a familiar environment with adults who will spoil them rotten
4. Spa Membership – This one gets tricky. If you give her a spa membership, she will say that you think she is getting fat/old/wrinkly, etc. You're walking in dangerous territory, men! Better yet, make sure that it is a place where her friends already hang out. Tell her you want her to have regular quality time with her girlfriends. She won't buy your pitch, but she'll join especially when you present her with the other gift that she wants: chocolate.
5. Stuff For Her Minivan. You know how hard it is for you to summon up courage to drive the family van, right? Especially after driving your Dakota all week. Who wants to be caught driving that thing? She does! This is where you really have to die to self: give her spark plugs and spark plug wires for Christmas and leave it at that. Just kidding. Better to find the name brand auto parts she really wants: floor mats, seat covers, pet pads, etc. All the frilly little things that make her vehicle, well, her own.
Are you still not sure what she wants? Then just look. That advertisement on your workbench is open to the page for the item she wants... the one with the big, red circle around it. So, just get it and leave it at that. If you do, you'll be singing, "peace on earth and goodwill toward men" in no time. Merry Christmas!
1. Jewelry – You had to ask? What woman doesn't want something shiny to wear on her fingers, around her neck, her wrist, her anklet, her belly button…Okay, I'm not talking custom jewelry either. I'm talking about something that will retain its shine in all weather conditions and can be counted in the number of karats it possesses. You can count on it setting you back at least through the following June, probably as late as Thanksgiving…
2. Chocolate – Milk chocolate just doesn't cut it, fellas. Better for you to pick it up by the brand: Peregina, Godiva, and Richart are a few that come to mind. Yeah, get her the little stocking stuffer Santa chocolates too. She'll think that you are being real sweet!
3. To the Islands! Okay, time to splurge. Go all out and book that early February vacation to Paradise. You know you will need it by time that the 17th measurable snowstorm plasters your driveway. Oh, by the way, no matter how much she thinks that the kids should come along, make arrangements with your parents to come and spend the week at your house. If the kiddies come down with the flu at least they will be in a familiar environment with adults who will spoil them rotten
4. Spa Membership – This one gets tricky. If you give her a spa membership, she will say that you think she is getting fat/old/wrinkly, etc. You're walking in dangerous territory, men! Better yet, make sure that it is a place where her friends already hang out. Tell her you want her to have regular quality time with her girlfriends. She won't buy your pitch, but she'll join especially when you present her with the other gift that she wants: chocolate.
5. Stuff For Her Minivan. You know how hard it is for you to summon up courage to drive the family van, right? Especially after driving your Dakota all week. Who wants to be caught driving that thing? She does! This is where you really have to die to self: give her spark plugs and spark plug wires for Christmas and leave it at that. Just kidding. Better to find the name brand auto parts she really wants: floor mats, seat covers, pet pads, etc. All the frilly little things that make her vehicle, well, her own.
Are you still not sure what she wants? Then just look. That advertisement on your workbench is open to the page for the item she wants... the one with the big, red circle around it. So, just get it and leave it at that. If you do, you'll be singing, "peace on earth and goodwill toward men" in no time. Merry Christmas!
Holiday Scams and Thieves Exposed
The holidays bring joy and a sense of well-being for most people. With the numerous parties, activities, family get-togethers, and holiday shopping, you may find that you are very busy and may not pay attention to potential scams and rip-offs. Here are some tips that will keep you and your money safe during the holidays:
Pickpocketing
While shopping for the many gifts you intend to give this year, pay careful attention to the presence of pickpockets. Keep you money in a front pocket rather than in your back pocket. If you carry a purse, make sure you hold it close to your body rather than holding it by the strap and letting it swing as you walk. Crafty pickpockets who often work as a team steal millions of dollars each year. One will distract the victim while the other slips in and take the victim's money. Protect yourself and your wallet at all times. Do not be fooled into thinking that since you are shopping at an upscale, safe location that you will not become the victim of a pickpocket.
Online Shopping Scams
Beware of online scams. During the holidays there are many web sites that offer incredible deals on various merchandise, travel specials, and a number of other seemingly 'perfect' opportunities. Be very careful about what you purchase online and from whom you make purchases. If you are careless in your online shopping habits, you may find that your merchandise never arrives as promised, the deal you thought you were purchasing is non-existent, or that not only does your order arrive after the holidays are over, but when it does arrive the merchandise only vaguely resembles that pictured on the web site, if there is any similarity at all.
Credit Card Companies
Beware of credit card companies that increase your spending limit immediately before the holiday shopping season begins. Each purchase you make will accrue interest, increasing the overall amounts you will spend the items you buy. Also do not make the mistake of accepting offers from your credit card company to skip your payment until after the New Year. The interest you owe will still accrue and you will end up owing more than you did initially. Also, be very cautious about making online purchases during the holiday season. While most merchants are reputable, there are some that will put up a web site with the express intent of obtaining credit card and debit card numbers for fraudulent purposes.
Telemarketing Scams
Telemarketing scams seem to increase during the holidays. Never give your personal information or credit card number to an unsolicited caller. Millions are stolen each year during the holidays due to telemarketing scams that entice consumers to make purchases immediately. If a telemarketer tells you that the incredible offer they are giving you will only be available for the next 10 minutes, hang up immediately. You should also be very careful when making purchases from door-to-door salesmen. Not only could you have your personal information used in a fraudulent manner, you could risk your safety by allowing strangers into your home.
Charity Scams
Beware of mail and calls from charities that you have never heard of. Many people have fallen victim to a charity scam that solicits money form unsuspecting consumers. The charity promises that your tax-deductible gift will go to help the underprivileged, starving children, victims of natural disasters, etc. Most charities are reputable, but stay away from any charity solicitation that is from an organization you have never seen before.
Wrapping Paper Station Scam
Also, beware of wrapping paper station scams. Wrapping paper stations can seem like a great idea, but in reality you can purchase and wrap everything you need for significantly less money. However, if you do decide to use a wrapping paper station make sure you're present at all times while your gift is being wrapped. Do not leave your gifts at the station and come back later to pick them up. The time you may save is not worth the extra expense and you may find out later that the gifts you bought were not the gifts you paid to have wrapped.
Pickpocketing
While shopping for the many gifts you intend to give this year, pay careful attention to the presence of pickpockets. Keep you money in a front pocket rather than in your back pocket. If you carry a purse, make sure you hold it close to your body rather than holding it by the strap and letting it swing as you walk. Crafty pickpockets who often work as a team steal millions of dollars each year. One will distract the victim while the other slips in and take the victim's money. Protect yourself and your wallet at all times. Do not be fooled into thinking that since you are shopping at an upscale, safe location that you will not become the victim of a pickpocket.
Online Shopping Scams
Beware of online scams. During the holidays there are many web sites that offer incredible deals on various merchandise, travel specials, and a number of other seemingly 'perfect' opportunities. Be very careful about what you purchase online and from whom you make purchases. If you are careless in your online shopping habits, you may find that your merchandise never arrives as promised, the deal you thought you were purchasing is non-existent, or that not only does your order arrive after the holidays are over, but when it does arrive the merchandise only vaguely resembles that pictured on the web site, if there is any similarity at all.
Credit Card Companies
Beware of credit card companies that increase your spending limit immediately before the holiday shopping season begins. Each purchase you make will accrue interest, increasing the overall amounts you will spend the items you buy. Also do not make the mistake of accepting offers from your credit card company to skip your payment until after the New Year. The interest you owe will still accrue and you will end up owing more than you did initially. Also, be very cautious about making online purchases during the holiday season. While most merchants are reputable, there are some that will put up a web site with the express intent of obtaining credit card and debit card numbers for fraudulent purposes.
Telemarketing Scams
Telemarketing scams seem to increase during the holidays. Never give your personal information or credit card number to an unsolicited caller. Millions are stolen each year during the holidays due to telemarketing scams that entice consumers to make purchases immediately. If a telemarketer tells you that the incredible offer they are giving you will only be available for the next 10 minutes, hang up immediately. You should also be very careful when making purchases from door-to-door salesmen. Not only could you have your personal information used in a fraudulent manner, you could risk your safety by allowing strangers into your home.
Charity Scams
Beware of mail and calls from charities that you have never heard of. Many people have fallen victim to a charity scam that solicits money form unsuspecting consumers. The charity promises that your tax-deductible gift will go to help the underprivileged, starving children, victims of natural disasters, etc. Most charities are reputable, but stay away from any charity solicitation that is from an organization you have never seen before.
Wrapping Paper Station Scam
Also, beware of wrapping paper station scams. Wrapping paper stations can seem like a great idea, but in reality you can purchase and wrap everything you need for significantly less money. However, if you do decide to use a wrapping paper station make sure you're present at all times while your gift is being wrapped. Do not leave your gifts at the station and come back later to pick them up. The time you may save is not worth the extra expense and you may find out later that the gifts you bought were not the gifts you paid to have wrapped.
Valentine's Day Flower Delivery
From selection through presentation, to the writing on the card and the tying of the bow, to the creation of beautiful set pieces to the addition of creative gifts – whether stuffed, cute and furry, dark, chocolate and yummy or sweet smelling and expensive – every aspect of choice is catered for in a 24 X 7 drive to enhance the emotional life of those you care for with a deep felt sign of your affection.
And amazingly all this can be done from any part of the globe to any other part of the globe and – one suspects – from outer space as well (should inhabitants of other Earth like planets also have broadband), all for the same reasonable rates and with the promise, on most occasions, of same day or even same hour delivery to any location you desire.
What other business in the world promises credit card awards in the form of kisses?
So you will understand if, perhaps, coming up to this celebration of celebrations for lovers everywhere, these determined deliverers of love's sweet signs ask for a little indulgence in their long hard rounds. Much as they would love to cater to your every whim and deliver, even up to the very last minute and however late the call; unlike other donators of celebratory munificence, they possess neither FTL bunny feet nor magical reindeer at their disposal.
Therefore, it behooves you to plan ahead a little. Where will your loved one be on Valentine's Day? What is the perfect time to surprise her? And what is the perfect gift to surprise her with? The web is your friend in all this. There is an endless variety of flowers and gifts to select from, each vying to be the ideal accompaniment to your message of true love, heart's desire or risqué devilment with the promise of more to come.
Perhaps, she has dropped you a hint of what to send. Perhaps you will choose something that matches her hobbies and interests or that will surprise her with your indulgence or romantic aspirations.
But if you want your lover to get the message on that special day, whatever it is you want to say to your lover on Valentine's, don't just say it with flowers, say it today.
How To Find The Best Christmas Gifts For Family And Friends Without Losing Your Sanity
• Make a list – there's no shame in writing down names and ideas before you hit the stores. Even Santa needs a list to keep track of Christmas gifts! It's a good idea to shop for Christmas gifts for immediate family and close friends first. Once you have all the must-buy-for people stroked off your list, you can concentrate on others people like neighbors. Having a list will also help you avoid unintentionally buying two Christmas gifts for the same person, and if you're working with a limited budget, seeing a written record of everyone you want to shop for gives you an opportunity to trim the list to a more manageable size.
• Shop early – yes, shopping carts grow bigger and more difficult to handle and shoppers desperately combing store shelves for Christmas gifts get even crankier and more unruly as the big day approaches. Bypass the crowds by shopping earlier in the year. Whether you're touring a summertime farmers' market or just hanging out at the mall while the kids catch a movie, keep your eyes peeled for possible Christmas gifts you can buy early and have wrapped and ready to go before the first Christmas flyers hit your mailbox. If you're really savvy, and you know someone who loves Christmas, take in the Christmas-themed merchandise sales in early January to find inexpensive ornaments, glassware and other goodies that make great Christmas gifts for those who sing Jingle Bells all year long.
How To Find The Best Christmas Gifts For Family And Friends Without Losing Your Sanity
Christmas Gift Ideas: The Treasures Under The Tree
Hear ye! Hear ye! The 'ber' months will be here before you know it!
When people start to hear about months ending in B-E-R, they all feel the clock sounding tic toc as it fast approaches the holiday season.
Christmas is the season to be jolly…. Falalalalalalala! For the kids, it's the merry month where they get so overly excited about gifts and other stuff that Santa brings. And for most, it's the time of the year when all the streets are busy and filled up with traffic while people swoon over shopping malls to find the perfect Christmas gift ideas for their families and friends.
Christmas gift ideas need not to be repetitive or monotonous. One might say "Oh, I know what I'll be getting this Christmas. If its from Aunt Jane, it'll be a north pole replica paperweight." Or "Mrs. Dunst will give me another box of her fruit cake. That has been her gift giving trademark for as long as I can remember." Hey, there are lots of Christmas gift ideas you can up with! Be creative, resourceful and imaginative! Don't you want people to remember you for the nicest and most unique Christmas gift ideas you send them every year?
Here are some new and exciting Christmas gift ideas to help you out:
1. Chef Santa on the run!
Cooking is not only a mommy's craft. This Christmas gift idea is a fun learning activity for the whole family. While all the ingredients are available in the grocery down town, it is also a perfect time to teach your kids or friends some cooking and baking lessons. Try experimenting on your home-made fruitcake, gingerbread house, and Christmas cookies. This is not only a classic Christmas gift idea, but a sure fun way to develop your craft for cooking.
2. Relive the sound of Christmas carols
Everyone has a favorite Christmas song. But wouldn't it a nice Christmas gift idea to make a compilation of old and new Christmas songs sung by various artists? A perfect Christmas gift idea that sounds music to the ears!
3. Candies, anyone!
No matter how candy canes are soooo last year, they are still a hit to all kids! Instead of the traditional white and red striped candy canes. Why not try on some chocolate candy cane? A strawberry candy cane? Or an orange candy cane? Have as many variety of candy cane as you can and try to come up with repackaged gift bags to make it more enticing. Kids, or even teens, will surely love this Christmas gift idea.
4. Christmas craft and decorations
Surprise your pal with this personalized Christmas gift idea. If he is a die-hard music lover cut out some musical notes or his favorite icons that he can hang around the tree. I'm sure he'd love to have something that no one else has. This cool Christmas gift idea is so unique and adds a bit of your personal touch.
5. Frame it up!
Want to bring your special someone in tears? No, I mean tears of joy. This cool Christmas gift idea will surely melt a snow. I mean, your sweetie's heart. Try to create and design a picture frame and draw yourselves as Mr. and Mrs. Santa. Or if you aren't artistic enough to draw, cut out some pictures and replace their faces with yours and your honey's and be sure to pick your best and sweetest shot. This will make him/her think how much effort did you exert to come up with a sweet Christmas gift idea like this.
These are just some of the hundreds of Christmas gift ideas, you can come up with every year. Whether you bought it in a shopping mall or you've made it yourself, be sure to pick the right Christmas gift idea for the right person. After all, it's the thought that count!
When people start to hear about months ending in B-E-R, they all feel the clock sounding tic toc as it fast approaches the holiday season.
Christmas is the season to be jolly…. Falalalalalalala! For the kids, it's the merry month where they get so overly excited about gifts and other stuff that Santa brings. And for most, it's the time of the year when all the streets are busy and filled up with traffic while people swoon over shopping malls to find the perfect Christmas gift ideas for their families and friends.
Christmas gift ideas need not to be repetitive or monotonous. One might say "Oh, I know what I'll be getting this Christmas. If its from Aunt Jane, it'll be a north pole replica paperweight." Or "Mrs. Dunst will give me another box of her fruit cake. That has been her gift giving trademark for as long as I can remember." Hey, there are lots of Christmas gift ideas you can up with! Be creative, resourceful and imaginative! Don't you want people to remember you for the nicest and most unique Christmas gift ideas you send them every year?
Here are some new and exciting Christmas gift ideas to help you out:
1. Chef Santa on the run!
Cooking is not only a mommy's craft. This Christmas gift idea is a fun learning activity for the whole family. While all the ingredients are available in the grocery down town, it is also a perfect time to teach your kids or friends some cooking and baking lessons. Try experimenting on your home-made fruitcake, gingerbread house, and Christmas cookies. This is not only a classic Christmas gift idea, but a sure fun way to develop your craft for cooking.
2. Relive the sound of Christmas carols
Everyone has a favorite Christmas song. But wouldn't it a nice Christmas gift idea to make a compilation of old and new Christmas songs sung by various artists? A perfect Christmas gift idea that sounds music to the ears!
3. Candies, anyone!
No matter how candy canes are soooo last year, they are still a hit to all kids! Instead of the traditional white and red striped candy canes. Why not try on some chocolate candy cane? A strawberry candy cane? Or an orange candy cane? Have as many variety of candy cane as you can and try to come up with repackaged gift bags to make it more enticing. Kids, or even teens, will surely love this Christmas gift idea.
4. Christmas craft and decorations
Surprise your pal with this personalized Christmas gift idea. If he is a die-hard music lover cut out some musical notes or his favorite icons that he can hang around the tree. I'm sure he'd love to have something that no one else has. This cool Christmas gift idea is so unique and adds a bit of your personal touch.
5. Frame it up!
Want to bring your special someone in tears? No, I mean tears of joy. This cool Christmas gift idea will surely melt a snow. I mean, your sweetie's heart. Try to create and design a picture frame and draw yourselves as Mr. and Mrs. Santa. Or if you aren't artistic enough to draw, cut out some pictures and replace their faces with yours and your honey's and be sure to pick your best and sweetest shot. This will make him/her think how much effort did you exert to come up with a sweet Christmas gift idea like this.
These are just some of the hundreds of Christmas gift ideas, you can come up with every year. Whether you bought it in a shopping mall or you've made it yourself, be sure to pick the right Christmas gift idea for the right person. After all, it's the thought that count!
Bring Your Party Theme To Life With The Right Party Decorations
If you are looking for a fun excuse to throw a party, especially after a long drought of officially sanctioned party days, you might want to consider some days that are not widely celebrated in North America, but are popular nonetheless. Each of these events offers some great opportunities for decorating.
Chinese New Year: No one has been celebrating New Year's for longer than the Chinese, and this is reflected in the 15-day-long event. Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to decorate the house for more than two weeks, leading up to the culmination of the holiday, the Lantern Festival. Reds, blacks, and yellows are the big colors of the day. Traditionally, many Chinese families have decorated their houses with flowers and bamboo. Dishes of fruit (oranges and tangerines), and traditional candy trays. You will also want to include a lot of Chinese paper lanterns, a delicate and beautiful addition to the party décor. Dragons are also a part of the holiday, but remember that they are considered sacred so utilize this theme in an educated manner. Noise makers area traditional part of the Lantern Festival, and ward off evil spirits for the New Year, as well as being great party favors.
Cinco de Mayo: Cinco de Mayo offers great opportunities for party decorations. Lots of bright oranges, reds, and yellows are the color scheme for the day, and will add a Latin flavor to your house. Look into getting (or making) a chili pepper wreath to spice things up. Ribbons and streamers should be thick crepe, in the colors of the day. Don't forget to purchase a piñata or three for some extra fun!
Food can actually add to the feeling of great party décor, and the food for Cinco de Mayo illustrates this perfectly. Layered dip, black bean and corn salsa, and three-milk cake all add a splash of color to the well-set table!
St. Patrick's Day: It almost goes without saying, but the theme for the day is green. Buy green balloons and shape them like clover for a great effect. You can also purchase shamrock-shaped balloons and hang them about your house. Hang some Irish flags above the door for good luck, and use a lot of green and white ribbon. Get yourself some St. Patrick's Day paper plates and napkins and your theme is totally set!
For any special occasion, even other than national holidays, throwing a party is a great way to relax with your friends, neighbors or co-workers and socialize. These holidays are great because they are so colorful and full of tradition. Party supplies, that bring your party theme alive will make the event unique and will be something your guests always remember.
Chinese New Year: No one has been celebrating New Year's for longer than the Chinese, and this is reflected in the 15-day-long event. Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to decorate the house for more than two weeks, leading up to the culmination of the holiday, the Lantern Festival. Reds, blacks, and yellows are the big colors of the day. Traditionally, many Chinese families have decorated their houses with flowers and bamboo. Dishes of fruit (oranges and tangerines), and traditional candy trays. You will also want to include a lot of Chinese paper lanterns, a delicate and beautiful addition to the party décor. Dragons are also a part of the holiday, but remember that they are considered sacred so utilize this theme in an educated manner. Noise makers area traditional part of the Lantern Festival, and ward off evil spirits for the New Year, as well as being great party favors.
Cinco de Mayo: Cinco de Mayo offers great opportunities for party decorations. Lots of bright oranges, reds, and yellows are the color scheme for the day, and will add a Latin flavor to your house. Look into getting (or making) a chili pepper wreath to spice things up. Ribbons and streamers should be thick crepe, in the colors of the day. Don't forget to purchase a piñata or three for some extra fun!
Food can actually add to the feeling of great party décor, and the food for Cinco de Mayo illustrates this perfectly. Layered dip, black bean and corn salsa, and three-milk cake all add a splash of color to the well-set table!
St. Patrick's Day: It almost goes without saying, but the theme for the day is green. Buy green balloons and shape them like clover for a great effect. You can also purchase shamrock-shaped balloons and hang them about your house. Hang some Irish flags above the door for good luck, and use a lot of green and white ribbon. Get yourself some St. Patrick's Day paper plates and napkins and your theme is totally set!
For any special occasion, even other than national holidays, throwing a party is a great way to relax with your friends, neighbors or co-workers and socialize. These holidays are great because they are so colorful and full of tradition. Party supplies, that bring your party theme alive will make the event unique and will be something your guests always remember.
The Legend of Chinese New Year's Monster Nian
An ancient Chinese legend tells of a man-eating predatory beast called Nian, extremely fierce, with a long head and sharp horn. Nian dwelled deep in the sea the whole year long, but on every Chinese New Year's Eve it would climb onto the shore to devour livestock and harm humans in a near-by village. Therefore, every Chinese New Year's Eve, all the villagers would take their old and young deep into the mountains to hide from Nian.
One Chinese New Year's Eve a grey haired man appeared in the village. He asked permission to stay for the night and assured everyone that he would chase away the beast. No one believed him. In addition, the old man steadfastly refused to go to the mountains to hide. Seeing that he could not be persuaded, the villagers departed without him.
When the beast arrived at the village to wreck havoc as usual, it was met with a sudden burst of exploding firecrackers. Startled by the noise, the flashes of light, and red banners flying about, it hastily turned and fled!
The following day, as the people returned from the mountains, they found the village intact and safe. The old man had left, but they found the remains of the three precious items he had used to chase the beast Nian away. They all agreed that the old man must be a deity who had come to help free them of the beast.
From then on, every Chinese New Year's Eve, families would hang red banners, set off fire crackers, and light their lamps the whole night through, awaiting the Chinese New Year. The custom spread far and wide and became a grand traditional celebration of the "Passing of Nian" ("Nian" in Chinese means "year").
So celebrating the Chinese New Year should be called "passing of Nian" or "Guo Nian" in Chinese. However the term was gradually changed to "Spring Festival" after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) took power in 1949. Gradually people have forgotten the legend behind these Chinese New Year traditions. It is merely one small example of how the CCP has robbed the Chinese people of their rich traditional culture.
New Tang Dynasty Television (NTDTV) is working hard to reverse this loss. In its 2006 Chinese New Year Global Gala it actually put the ancient story of the Nian monster on stage. NTDTV's Chinese New Year shows are a unique opportunity to experience the magic of traditional Chinese culture. Marvelous music, ancient instruments, magnificent backdrops, splendid costumes, and first class performers--altogether make for outstanding entertainment reflecting China's 5,000 years of civilization and traditional culture--a culture rich in myths and legends worth cherishing and preserving.
Between January and March the 2007 NTDTV Chinese New Year Spectacular will be touring Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Washington, DC, and major cities in Canada, Europe and Asia. http://shows.ntdtv.com
One Chinese New Year's Eve a grey haired man appeared in the village. He asked permission to stay for the night and assured everyone that he would chase away the beast. No one believed him. In addition, the old man steadfastly refused to go to the mountains to hide. Seeing that he could not be persuaded, the villagers departed without him.
When the beast arrived at the village to wreck havoc as usual, it was met with a sudden burst of exploding firecrackers. Startled by the noise, the flashes of light, and red banners flying about, it hastily turned and fled!
The following day, as the people returned from the mountains, they found the village intact and safe. The old man had left, but they found the remains of the three precious items he had used to chase the beast Nian away. They all agreed that the old man must be a deity who had come to help free them of the beast.
From then on, every Chinese New Year's Eve, families would hang red banners, set off fire crackers, and light their lamps the whole night through, awaiting the Chinese New Year. The custom spread far and wide and became a grand traditional celebration of the "Passing of Nian" ("Nian" in Chinese means "year").
So celebrating the Chinese New Year should be called "passing of Nian" or "Guo Nian" in Chinese. However the term was gradually changed to "Spring Festival" after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) took power in 1949. Gradually people have forgotten the legend behind these Chinese New Year traditions. It is merely one small example of how the CCP has robbed the Chinese people of their rich traditional culture.
New Tang Dynasty Television (NTDTV) is working hard to reverse this loss. In its 2006 Chinese New Year Global Gala it actually put the ancient story of the Nian monster on stage. NTDTV's Chinese New Year shows are a unique opportunity to experience the magic of traditional Chinese culture. Marvelous music, ancient instruments, magnificent backdrops, splendid costumes, and first class performers--altogether make for outstanding entertainment reflecting China's 5,000 years of civilization and traditional culture--a culture rich in myths and legends worth cherishing and preserving.
Between January and March the 2007 NTDTV Chinese New Year Spectacular will be touring Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Washington, DC, and major cities in Canada, Europe and Asia. http://shows.ntdtv.com
Making The Most Of Valentine's Day Gifts For Her
To put emphasis on the special, then you should, first and foremost, consider her and her individual likes and dislikes. Whether you are just considering a gift of flowers, such as red roses, or a gift basket, it will not be very romantic if you end up buying something which your Valentine does not like or appreciate, and which clearly shows you do not have a clue about the real her. Your gifts and tokens of love must come from the heart.
Valentine's Day comes but once a year, so why not make it just that, a day? If your budget allows, and she can be available for the day, then try spending some time thinking about what would make her very happy and spoilt, pampered, and very much loved.
By planning a full Valentine Day, you will undoubtedly make her Valentine's gift unique. In fact, the gift will be a series of gifts and events spread throughout the day. Timing and order could be very important, and that is something you will have to judge depending on your girlfriend or wife.
The permutations for a true Valentine "Day" are endless. If you first decide what to include, then think about the best timing and order for her to get maximum pleasure, the days itinerary will gradually full into place. For example, if a romantic, candlelit evening meal is an essential, then you need to get that booked well in advance and the time set. Should you believe she would love to be pampered in a day spa for much of the morning, then that that too would need to be booked well in advance, as would an afternoon makeover and hairdo.
While it cannot be that much of a surprise as a day (after all she will need to be asked to be available all day), you can keep the individual elements of the day, and the physical gifts, secret. How is this for an example?:
1. A very beautiful Valentine Card on the breakfast table waiting her, or delivered by courier to her door.
2. Early morning delivery of flowers to her home, or yours if you live together. Including roses? Well, that's up to you, but more of that later.
3. A visit to a good day spa where she can be pampered from head to foot for the morning.
4. A light lunch somewhere that is a bit out of the ordinary, but relaxing and with a warm and welcoming ambience. Maybe a floating restaurant if you have one close enough, or anything else with a romantic touch.
5. It's off to the parlour for a hairdo, manicure, pedicure and makeover.
6. She'll be feeling on top of the world by now, a great time to go to a boutique or two to find that perfect outfit for the evening meal.
7. Home on schedule, to await the delivery of a gift basket that includes a bottle of her favourite wine (for later), some feminine and floral fragrances including bath salts, so she can have a long relaxing soak in the bath before going out for the meal.
8. While she's in the bath, hide a new bottle of a perfume she has always wanted inside the new dress so she will find it as she gets ready for the evening.
9. A wonderful candlelit meal, with her favourite choice of foods available; a romantic ambience is a necessary to top off the evening.
10. As you order your dessert, a well timed flower delivery of fresh roses delivered to the restaurant, and then your table. You'll need a reliable florist and a bit of time watching for this!
11. Back home and an offer to open the wine.
12. While she is in the bathroom, replace the bedroom lighting with scented candles, and place her last gift, some new lingerie, on the pillow to await her.
That is an expensive example, and please do not send me the bill. However, I am sure you get the idea. Valentine's Day can be an experience, not just a card, a rose, and a meal.
Memory Foam: The Perfect Gift Idea For Your Sweetheart
Memory Foam is everywhere and it makes a perfect gift for anyone you know. Your wife or significant other would be absolutely tickled with any one of a wide range of gifts available in memory foam.
Memory foam sleep masks make a great, low cost, gift idea for anyone who likes it dark in the room they're sleeping in. They are especially useful for those who enjoy "sleeping in" but don't want the sun shining into their eyes and waking them up.
You also might consider buying the memory foam sleep mask as a gift for a shift-worker or someone who likes an afternoon nap to catch up on sleep.
The non-pressure feel of memory foam makes it a perfect material for sleep masks because they won't cut off circulation and they remain comfortable to the sleeper all night.
Expect to pay from $10 to $30 for a quality memory foam sleep mask.
Another low cost Christmas gift idea is a pair of memory foam slippers. These slippers are great for indoors or outdoors.
These are ideal for someone wanting a quick, easy to slip on shoe to run out for the morning paper or to keep your feet cozy and warm while lounging around the house.
The memory foam cradles your feet in comfort by conforming to the exact shape and size of your feet. Warm, cozy and comfortable, these memory foam slippers will make someone very happy.
Expect to pay $39 to $79 for this gift.
Memory foam pillows come in a vast variety of shapes and sizes.
Memory foam contour pillows are the ones, you see a lot on television, that have a "roll" on one side to put the proper curved support in your neck while you sleep.
There are "regular shaped" pillows that are made from memory foam also...even memory foam body pillows. The body pillows are especially wonderful for expectant mothers who need special support while sleeping.
There are smaller memory foam travel pillows, either contoured or u-shaped to surround your neck.
Memory foam pillows vary widely in price, but you can expect to pay $79 for the travel size to $165 for a good king size or body pillow.
If you are on a higher limit budget, you might consider a memory foam topper.
Toppers range, in quality, from the very low to the very high.
The low end toppers are made from less dense foam...usually, 2 lb. to 3.5 lb. density, and they don't give you the proper support that you would expect from memory foam.. You can count on the foam returning to it's shape for about 6 or 8 months on the cheaper toppers. After that, they will be pretty worthless.
The better toppers are made from 4 lb. to 5 lb. foam and will hold up for several years. They will give you better support and last much longer than the cheaper ones.
A high density memory foam topper will provide the most support you can expect from a memory foam topper, but they aren't in the same league as a full memory foam mattress set.
Cheaper toppers will, typically be in the $99 to $299 category. You'll pay $299 to $499 for a middle grade topper and $500 to $900 for the best toppers.
Now matter how you slice it, a gift of memory foam will make you mighty popular with the girl of your dreams.
Memory foam sleep masks make a great, low cost, gift idea for anyone who likes it dark in the room they're sleeping in. They are especially useful for those who enjoy "sleeping in" but don't want the sun shining into their eyes and waking them up.
You also might consider buying the memory foam sleep mask as a gift for a shift-worker or someone who likes an afternoon nap to catch up on sleep.
The non-pressure feel of memory foam makes it a perfect material for sleep masks because they won't cut off circulation and they remain comfortable to the sleeper all night.
Expect to pay from $10 to $30 for a quality memory foam sleep mask.
Another low cost Christmas gift idea is a pair of memory foam slippers. These slippers are great for indoors or outdoors.
These are ideal for someone wanting a quick, easy to slip on shoe to run out for the morning paper or to keep your feet cozy and warm while lounging around the house.
The memory foam cradles your feet in comfort by conforming to the exact shape and size of your feet. Warm, cozy and comfortable, these memory foam slippers will make someone very happy.
Expect to pay $39 to $79 for this gift.
Memory foam pillows come in a vast variety of shapes and sizes.
Memory foam contour pillows are the ones, you see a lot on television, that have a "roll" on one side to put the proper curved support in your neck while you sleep.
There are "regular shaped" pillows that are made from memory foam also...even memory foam body pillows. The body pillows are especially wonderful for expectant mothers who need special support while sleeping.
There are smaller memory foam travel pillows, either contoured or u-shaped to surround your neck.
Memory foam pillows vary widely in price, but you can expect to pay $79 for the travel size to $165 for a good king size or body pillow.
If you are on a higher limit budget, you might consider a memory foam topper.
Toppers range, in quality, from the very low to the very high.
The low end toppers are made from less dense foam...usually, 2 lb. to 3.5 lb. density, and they don't give you the proper support that you would expect from memory foam.. You can count on the foam returning to it's shape for about 6 or 8 months on the cheaper toppers. After that, they will be pretty worthless.
The better toppers are made from 4 lb. to 5 lb. foam and will hold up for several years. They will give you better support and last much longer than the cheaper ones.
A high density memory foam topper will provide the most support you can expect from a memory foam topper, but they aren't in the same league as a full memory foam mattress set.
Cheaper toppers will, typically be in the $99 to $299 category. You'll pay $299 to $499 for a middle grade topper and $500 to $900 for the best toppers.
Now matter how you slice it, a gift of memory foam will make you mighty popular with the girl of your dreams.
Finding The Perfect Mother's Day Gift, A Daily Connection
Mother's Day comes and we are often at a loss for selecting a gift that shows we care, yet also is one of significance. Mother's Day flowers and cards are nice, but a Mother's Day Gift that she uses each day will be a daily connection of thoughtfulness.
A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. -- Tenneva Jordan
There is a name that often has the same effect as soothing balm on a tender wound. Many can go through life saying she doesn't matter, but it is the wounds of life that require the ministrations that only a mother can provide.
Surely you've had those moments when you desire the closeness of mom although you might indicate you'd rather not see her. We can all be grateful that moms see through our inner turmoil and willingly stand with us when the need is greatest.
The most selfless individuals on the planet are mothers. They are often the first ones up and the last to bed. They serve your needs without asking anything in return. They suffer through the abuse of adolescent children and willingly welcome us home when we come to our senses.
When the second Sunday in May rolls around it is the true essence of gratitude that brings us to the doorstep of mom's house with gifts in hand, from hearts that have begun to catch a glimpse of thankfulness.
Mother's Day gifts come in all sizes, fragrances, colors and styles. Most often these gifts are simple flower arrangements and gift cards. Moms will never respond unkindly, but perhaps it is time to consider a gift that is a thoughtful indicator of the love and appreciation you have for your mother. A gift of considerate choosing that takes your gratitude to a level that will surprise and delight the very one who gave you life.
Mothers spend a great deal of time in the kitchen and a unique kitchen gift or a gourmet gift of elegance and style will be remembered long after flowers fade, wither, and are summarily discarded.
Imagine a time in the future; your mother sits down for a cup of tea and traces her finger across the top of the European Glass Teapot she received as a gift from you. She remembers special long ago moments she was certain she had forgotten. A thoughtful, daily used gift can provide a personal ongoing connection between you and your mother. Best of all - her thoughts will be toward you – not the gift.
This in no way diminishes the effectiveness of the gift; it actually enhances the overall gift giving experience. You see, a well thought out Mother's Day gift is as much for you as it is for her; useful and appreciated – with memories attached.
When the second Sunday in May rolls around, consider a kitchen gift or a gourmet gift that conveys to your mom that you believe Mother's Day is more than a special occasion – the day is a moment of insistence that she be held in the highest esteem. It may even be a moment when strained relationships can be mended and old offenses forgotten.
The second Monday in May will find your mom back in her daily routine. Why not give her another reason to think of you each day.
She will, you know.
A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. -- Tenneva Jordan
There is a name that often has the same effect as soothing balm on a tender wound. Many can go through life saying she doesn't matter, but it is the wounds of life that require the ministrations that only a mother can provide.
Surely you've had those moments when you desire the closeness of mom although you might indicate you'd rather not see her. We can all be grateful that moms see through our inner turmoil and willingly stand with us when the need is greatest.
The most selfless individuals on the planet are mothers. They are often the first ones up and the last to bed. They serve your needs without asking anything in return. They suffer through the abuse of adolescent children and willingly welcome us home when we come to our senses.
When the second Sunday in May rolls around it is the true essence of gratitude that brings us to the doorstep of mom's house with gifts in hand, from hearts that have begun to catch a glimpse of thankfulness.
Mother's Day gifts come in all sizes, fragrances, colors and styles. Most often these gifts are simple flower arrangements and gift cards. Moms will never respond unkindly, but perhaps it is time to consider a gift that is a thoughtful indicator of the love and appreciation you have for your mother. A gift of considerate choosing that takes your gratitude to a level that will surprise and delight the very one who gave you life.
Mothers spend a great deal of time in the kitchen and a unique kitchen gift or a gourmet gift of elegance and style will be remembered long after flowers fade, wither, and are summarily discarded.
Imagine a time in the future; your mother sits down for a cup of tea and traces her finger across the top of the European Glass Teapot she received as a gift from you. She remembers special long ago moments she was certain she had forgotten. A thoughtful, daily used gift can provide a personal ongoing connection between you and your mother. Best of all - her thoughts will be toward you – not the gift.
This in no way diminishes the effectiveness of the gift; it actually enhances the overall gift giving experience. You see, a well thought out Mother's Day gift is as much for you as it is for her; useful and appreciated – with memories attached.
When the second Sunday in May rolls around, consider a kitchen gift or a gourmet gift that conveys to your mom that you believe Mother's Day is more than a special occasion – the day is a moment of insistence that she be held in the highest esteem. It may even be a moment when strained relationships can be mended and old offenses forgotten.
The second Monday in May will find your mom back in her daily routine. Why not give her another reason to think of you each day.
She will, you know.
Gifts for Dads
Gifts for Dads
1. Daddy O's Shirts – Retro is in and retro bowling shirts are hot, hot, hot. If you want to buy him a cool gift, get him one of these great shirts from Daddy O's by just searching for them online. You can expect to pay between $35 and $80 per shirt.
2. Chef's Fork – Now family comes complete with out a grill guru. If you're looking for unique gifts online for the grill guru in yours, the Chef's Fork may be the answer. These forks are made especially for grilling and contain sensors in them to tell the grilling guru the temperature and "doneness" of the food being cooked. Works for practically every food item, even baked potatoes. The Chef's Fork will run you between $30 and $50 depending on the feature you want.
3. Shun Ken Onion Chef's Knife. If he likes to cook, this knife made by the famous Ken Onion is sure to please. This is the ultimate knife is forged with VG-10 stainless steel, ergonomically designed and of the absolute highest quality. The ultimate Chef's knife will set you back just under $200.
4. Digital Photo Keychain – Everyone has a keychain and everyone has photographs they carry around with them. The digital photo keychain lets you combine the two. The keychain has a 1 inch by 1 inch display that easily fits in the palm of your hand. Load photos onto from your PC and off you go. Expect to pay $40 to $50 for this very cool gift for dads, moms or anyone.
5. Nomad Writing Journals – If you're buying for a person that loves the outdoors or to travel, Nomad Writing Journals make great gifts. These journals are tailored to activities such as travel, fly fishing, bird watching, backpacking, camping, rock climbing and so on. They come with or without a case and provide writing space as well as cues for writing down important information. A great keepsake to preserve their travel and outdoor experiences. The journals cost as low as $9 without waterproof case and $25 with case.
With these gifts for dads, you can come up with that particular thing that will make them smile. Trust me, they'll be happy not to get another sweater!
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