It's that time of year again. Shopping for family and friends can quickly turn the Ho Ho Ho into a very hearty Har Har Har. I am a very good girl—I had finished all of my holiday shopping before Thanksgiving...I thought.

Of course, that was before I found out a certain someone got rid of their Xbox, making my gift pointless...so there I was, back at the start line once again... Here's a tip—before you buy something, you might want to make sure the person can accommodate your gift. If you get things too far in advance you also run the risk of them buying it themselves.

Whether you have already bought all or most of your gifts (or perhaps have a similar situation as mine), or you haven't started yet because you prefer the hectic hustle and bustle of last-minute-shopping-chaos, this guide may help spark a few gift ideas.

Now, lets see...where to begin. Well, it all began with the mother right? So why not start there...

GIFTS FOR MOM/OLDER-GIRLFRIEND/WIFE

Argarôme® Bain is an essential soothing concentrate for your bath, a secret for an unforgettable well-being. The relaxing and rejuvenating power of three essential oils (rosemary, lavender and lemon) boosts the repairing action of the argan oil. It takes very little added to your bath for an exquisite result.

This company's mission statement: Our mission is to offer extraordinary products that promote beauty, health and well-being, sourced from areas of the world where we support social and economic development. We seek products that are produced ethically, that respect and sustain our environment. Our goal is to add vitality to your life: to help you feel good, look good, and get the most out of life. Cost: 49.00 Buy Now

The Box Girls mini Box of Questions. I know what you are thinking—a box of what? But these things are actually kinda cool at family and friend gatherings...a great way to stimulate conversation. Sometimes words are better than "things" when it comes to spending some quality time with mom. These little boxes are great—21 question cards, hours of laughter, fits in the palm of your hand. Cost: 6.95 Buy Now

The Body Shop. Nearly anything here will do. There are a ton of holiday specials going on, with products ranging from skin care, bath, make-up, body essentials, hair, fragrances and home treats like candles, fragrance oils, etc.

Moms like to be pampered, and there isn't much here that won't pamper her! Take special note in the "Specials" section where there are real deals and savings to be had. No one ever said you had to go broke finding the perfect gifts! Cost: 3.00 to 26.00 Buy Now

Jewelry Web. Of course, most women value a little jewelry for the holidays (except maybe me...), and Jewelry Web is the perfect place to get it. There are holiday sales, but their merchandise is generally priced lower than most retail outlets. It's not Jared's, it's better—it won't cost you five fortunes...

These guys give you 40 to 60 percent off retail prices, with an additional $20 off of purchases that are $200 or more. You also get free shipping on purchases of $150 or more. They have a vast selection, including precious stones, gold, silver, necklaces, bracelets, rings, charms, etc. Cost: 7.99 to 999.00+ Buy Now

Oriental Trading Company. Is your mom a scrapbooker? Does she like crafts or making things? Is she a real homey kind of person? A school teacher perhaps? Just creative? This might be a great alternative for you and your holiday shopping.

Oriental Trading has tons of arts and crafts, scrapbooking and other home decor and novelties. This is a great place to find off-the-wall items as well. Look under Arts and Crafts for scrapbooking stuff... Cost: 2.95 to 10.00 Buy Now

Gift Baskets. These are the catch-all present solver. If you just can't think of anything else, you can always admit defeat and grab a nifty gift basket—they have a sale going on as well. Gift baskets work for other hard-to-buy-for individuals too (not just moms)...but use only as a last resort—or if the person you are buying for really likes them (some people do like gift baskets.)

Baskets cover all occasions and individual types. Holiday Cheer baskets contain all sorts of goodies, depending on the selection you choose, like cookies, teas, crackers, cheese, coffee mugs, popcorn, chocolate, coffee, spa essentials, candles, fruit, nuts, and a ton more. All baskets are very decorative. Cost: 24.99 to 100.00+ (depending on the size) Buy Now

DON'Ts:

• For the love of God or all things not holy: Do NOT attempt to buy your mother, wife or mature girlfriend clothing - this is a big no-no. What if you get something too small...or too big? Then the size thing comes up...and - oh boy - you really don't want one of those discussions! Nevermind the fact that your ability to actually buy something they will like and/or fit into has a probability of 1 in 100,000 of being successful.
• If you are one of those people that likes to buy toasters and blenders for people during the holidays—you should be shot! Kitchen appliances are off limits until AFTER the holidays. This is not home improvement time.
• Why do people insist on buying friends and family Christmas ornaments as Christmas presents? Not only is it annoying, show how thoughtless you really are, and most likely will be pitched in the bin—it almost never goes with the decor they already have up.
• Dollar Store accessories and cheap perfume—just...don't. The world smells bad enough, why add an odor.

GIFTS FOR DAD/OLDER-BOYFRIEND/HUSBAND

Menscience. A travel kit for the frequent flyer is always a safe bet, especially with this great product—and—contrary to popular belief, men do like to take care of themselves more these days. It's the most complete and advanced men's travel kit, designed to comply with the latest Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules so you don’t need to check in your Menscience products.

A full regimen (shave, aftershave, cleanser, moisturizer, shampoo, deodorant, lip balm and more) includes ten professional-grade products for visible results that cover all of their skincare and grooming needs during short or long trips. There are a ton of great products to choose from - click on the buy now link to browse around, other products are lower in price, including acne products, etc. Cost: 78.00 Buy Now

Relax the Back. Dads need some relaxation time too. This place has everything you need to get him the relief he needs from a stressful day's work. Whether for sleep, work, massage, seating, fitness, travel or multi-media, Relax the Back has a little something for everyone.

These gifts aren't just great for dads though—some of these products are ideal for hard-working moms, wives and girlfriends too. They offer shipping discounts, as well as clearance items. Cost: Varies by product Buy Now

Film Movement. If your dad or significant other is a movie buff, this may be the perfect gift for him. Film Movement is the DVD of the month club for award-winning independent and foreign film.

They are like a book of the month club for award-winning new film. Customers can subscribe and automatically receive a new film each month or they purchase individual films from their catalog of over 100 award-winning feature and short films. 3, 6, and 12 month gift subscriptions are also available. There is a special holiday sale going on right now if you hurry... Cost: 15.00 to 119.00 Buy Now

Sports Collectibles. Is he into sports? This is a great place to grab signed or unsigned collector items from all sport types. Whether you are snagging a t-shirt of his favorite team, a signed poster from a player or a season DVD...there isn't much you won't find here as far as sports are concerned.

Baseball, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, wrestling, golf, NASCAR and the NCAA memorabilia are all abundant and ready for your sports fan's bod, desk, wall or showcase. Cost: 7.99 to 1799.00, depending on whether something is autographed or not... Buy Now

DON'Ts:

• How many fellas hate it when they get socks or tighty whiteys for Christmas, raise your hand... You know, I am always amazed at how well my dad maintained his composure and refrained from hurling when he got those.
• Balls—guys have enough of these—please tell me why you find the need to buy them more? More golf balls, tennis balls, footballs, basket and base and soccer balls...I am bouncing just writing this.
• Ties...could you be any more cliche? Nothing says I thought of you last like a nice, striped tie in a box.
• Gloves, pocket knives, cufflinks - oh my - that really isn't the way to the yellow-brick-road of fabulous gifts...Tell me—was it a dollar store sale?

TEENS/COLLEGE STUDENTS/GENERALLY COOL PEOPLE

Level 99 Jeans. Jeans that are cool, comfortable and affordable. 99’s common denominator is supreme styling for all women. Widely known among fashion trendsetters and forecasters, Level 99 is the leader in wide-leg denim and trouser fits that flatter every woman’s body type and lifestyle.

Sought out as the "perfect jean", Level 99’s Laguna has caused an explosion of interest among savvy shoppers and top buyers. Level 99 is worn day to night due to its impeccable attention to the woman’s body. Cost: 45.00 to 130.00 Buy Now Here or Here

Bordeaux. The tops you find here are actually a perfect compliment to the jeans listed above. They will love one of these great styles to show off to all their friends! Not only do they look great with the accompanying pair of trousers, they actually make you look good in the process, accentuating all of the "good qualities" of someone's physique, while remaining stylish, fun and comfortable. Cost: 38.00 to 200.00+ Buy Now

Starbucks. Nothing says I love you more than a Starbucks gift card when your spawn/sibling or friend is a college student...just make sure it is a minimum of $20 smackers lest you get the "eye roll" to indicate "why bother".

Most of us cannot function without a cuppa Jo in the morning, afternoon and sometimes evening...please—contribute to our addiction! Cost: 20.00+ Buy Now

iTunes. Who can live without it? Want to make someone happy? Buy them a gift certificate with a 20 spot for iTunes (or more if you insist). It can be just that easy. Know what television show or movies they like? Buy them a season pass, or the movie...albums, single releases—you can't go wrong.

Gift certificates start at $10 and go up to whatever amount you feel the need to spend...Anyone with a computer, laptop or iPod can enjoy a download from the iTunes store. They don't have an iPod? Well...there is another gift idea.... Cost 10.00 to infinity. Buy Now

Delia's. Clothes, bedding and other cool stuff for the trendy chick. They are having a 75% blow-out clearance right now, so it's a good time to shop online at this place. They are giving all customers free shipping on purchases of $25 or more.

Not only are there some great deals on apparel, outer wear and accessories, Delia's has a great selection of hip bedding, lighting and furniture—sure to spruce up any crusty college dorm room...They are offering 15% off all bedding for the holidays. Of course there are tons of other interesting things to brighten up a room. I personally love the Piano Key rug. Cost: 2.99 to 100.00+, depending on what you purchase. Buy now

Tactics. Your guy or gal like to surf, skate or snowboard? This shop has a lot of great deals for clothing, accessories and equipment for any of these extracurricular activities.

All of the popular brands are available through this one site, with many different selections and a great sale going on right now (you have to search around for the sale items though). They also offer free shipping on orders over $79. Cost: 9.95 to 100+, depending on the purchase item. Buy Now

Skullcandy Headphones. If they like music, they will like these accessories for their mp3 players! The headpones by Skullcandy provide a crystal clear sound they makes jam time so much better. Cost: 29.95 Buy Now

DON'Ts:

• Don't buy clothes for this group without first taking a walk around the mall (or online) to determine their taste (best thing to do is have them point things out that they like). Once you have a good idea of likes, you may proceed. Make sure you get sizes right, sneak in and look at their clothing labels...muwhahahaha Tip: Generally, if you are older folk, most things you wouldn't like they will like.
• Don't buy them movies or albums without first finding out what kind of music/movies they like and don't already have. I know it should be common sense...but you'd be surprised how many people think they know what someone likes only to find it in the bin a few weeks later...
• Please refrain from buying gloves, socks, under garments...boring, boring—way too personal.

KIDS/JUNIOR AND LIKE TOTS EVEN

Disney Holiday Shopping. This is the magic place...mainly for girls. Whether it is princesses like Cinderella, Gizelle, Ariel, Snow White or Beauty—you will never run out of pretty things for the little girls in your life. And of course, there is the Pirates of the Caribbean toys for the boys...

Right now Disney is running a 25% off sale on your entire order, a 50% sale on snow globes and up to 65% savings on individual items. Pay special attention to the wording of "up to". Cost: 5.99+ Buy Now

Cartoon Network. Is your prodigy a cartoon junky? If so, you are sure to find something at the Cartoon Network shop that will interest him or her. Whether it's Ben 10, Billy and Mandy, Power Puff Girls or Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends - there is something for all of the network shows to be had.

Right now they are running a free shipping special on all orders over $75. Cost 9.99+ Buy Now

Warner Bros. Any Harry Potter, Scooby Doo, Matrix, Batman, Looney Tunes, Super Hero fans? There is more...I just don't feel like typing all of them. Basically - if Warner produced it, they have it in stock...

You can shop by price or category, and there are item sales in various genres of collectibles, toys, clothing and accessories. You have to hunt around for them, and many things are already starting to get sold out. Here you'll find everything from jewelry to clothing, toys, stickers, coffee mugs, chess sets, and more. Cost: 7.45+ Buy Now

Nickelodeon. Spongebob, that is all I need to say... Kids go gaga over this Mr. Squarepants. Admittedly, I watch the show as well...and no laughing at my Gary stuffed animal!!! The great thing about this place - they offer lower-than-retail prices. They have a special going on too—get a free DVD with any purchase over $50. Cost: 5.00+ Buy Now

DON'Ts:

• Kids are kids first and foremost, and unlike teens and college rats, they really aren't into clothes yet. There is nothing more devastating to a child than receiving clothes for Christmas. What a bummer!
  
• Don't buy them candy to stuff their stocking. Obesity, hyper activity and cavities....need I say more?
• Don't buy them toys centering around professions you want to influence them into. Buy them things they like—it's not about you.
  

GENERAL GIFT IDEAS/PLACES TO GO FOR EVERYONE

Overstock.com. Well, here is a store that gives you practically 80 percent off of everything, no matter what you are looking to buy. It has everything from flowers, gift baskets, cigars, bedding, furniture, jewelry, watches, electronics, books, sports stuff, clothing and more.

You can search their stock pile of goodies by category, price range, best sellers or age. It is a great one-stop shop if you don't have time to look around too much. Cost: Varies by product Buy Now

Fujitsu Computers and Electronics. Who doesn't want or need a desktop alternative or laptop these days? Fujitsu has some of the best in the market today. College students, adults, wives, husbands, boyfriends and girlfriends—even kids need them or want them.

If you are looking for a reliable system, this is one that will knock your gift recipient's socks off! They are running a special promotion in conjunction with Blockbuster: you get four months free Blockbuster Total Access when you purchase a system for the holidays. Cost: 899.00+ Buy Now

CONCLUSION

All jokes and puns aside, Christmas is a special holiday season. It is a time for gathering with family and friends, eating and acts of merriment, opening presents, sipping hot chocolate and standing under mistletoe (although I am sure I do not know why...).

Just remember one thing - when someone gets a gift from you that they don't like, it's the lack of thought they are thinking about...and that counts too.

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Comments

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JTamerak   |2007-11-30 07:50:17 Guys don't like clothes, not because it is a problem with fitting, but because we always seem to get crappy clothes. I think going on a walking tour like you said to find out what we really like is a good idea. you should add: but then don't go buy something they didn't point out!!! I actually had that happen once. I showed my mom stuff I liked, and she bought me all this crap that I hated. Why bother! Reply 0   0

BeLa   |2007-11-30 06:08:56 "Nevermind the fact that your ability to actually buy something they will like and/or fit into has a probability of 1 in 100,000 of being successful. " AMEN. [smiley=tongue] Mm..I think I'll borrow some ideas... and by the way, should I worry that I found appealing the kids section, for me? hehe... Reply 0   0

JessicaS   |2007-11-29 18:59:15 hahaha. All of that is so true. Starbucks is a must! [smiley=cool] Reply 0   0

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3.25 Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved."