So every year Mother’s Day rolls around and you wonder what to get mom.  This year, why not try something a little different?

California Wine Club and Choclatique: Who doesn’t love a good glass of wine and yummy chocolates – together they can be oh so good. Choclatique and The California Wine Club are partnering for a new and exciting cross-promotion that will provide their fans and members with a special treat for Mother’s Day. For every order placed with The California Wine Club for two months or more, recipients will be gifted a four-piece box of unique, fine Choclatique artisan chocolates. Each chocolate will perfectly complement the offered wines, and together will make the ideal Mother’s Day present. 

We Take the Cake: It’s never too late to join in on the cupcake craze.  And trust me, We Take the Cake bakes some amazing homemade cakes and deliver them fresh, in a cooler box with dry ice, right to your doorstep.  And they’re not just about a cupcakes…their Key Lime bundt cake was chosen as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things!  Their cakes look just as good as they taste! From custom creations to cupcakes, layer cakes, bundt cakes and more, We Take the Cake is the source for the most sensational cake creations anywhere.

BuddhiWear: What mom wouldn’t appreciate a beautiful organic cotten tee?  BuddhiWear produces and sells postively themed organic apparel. Our company took its name from the word “buddhi”, meaning “she who is conscious, AWAKE”. My personal favorite is the I’m Just Here For Savasana (this is the rest and relaxation pose at the end of a yoga class).  They also have some adorable kids tees as well.

Waves of Gratitude: When traditional, standard jewelry won’t work for your mom, try something a bit more personal, something with a message.  The Branches of Hope pendant is the universal symbol of hope and is available in sterling silver. Waves of Gratitude  was created as the result of their search for a piece of inspirational jewelry that would serve as a reminder to always be grateful.  They were looking for something that not just said the word gratitude on it, but something that symbolized gratitude.  What better way to remind mom that you’re grateful for all she’s done for you.

Rosetta Stone: Some people love to travel and some people love to dream about traveling.  Why not give mom a gift that’s a little different this year, the gift of language.  Let her know that you remember the way she’s always talked about going to Rome, Brazil, or  Shanghai.  Give her a head start and let her learn the language.  Maybe next year you can both visit Paris together for Mother’s Day.

BnB Finder: Forget breakfast in bed.  The best stress-free gift is to send mom to the B&B of her choice.  Forget household chores, PTA meetings or soccer practice.  BnBFinder.com offers gift certificates to over 1,500 B&Bs with no black out or expiration dates.  Each B&B offers a unique experience ranging from active getaways for moms that want to be near the great outdoors or culinary or wine tasting excursions and even art or music workshops.   Mom can enjoy some private time and try something new and focus on herself for once.  

photo: strawbleu

If you’re anything like me this year you’ve been so pre-occupied with other things that the holidays probably snuck up on you.  Well have no fear, there are plenty of last minute holiday gift ideas out there that go beyond gift cards and a bottle of wine (not that there’s anything wrong with either!) and you still have plenty of time to get it all done.

In the past, we offered up some DIY approaches to the holidays with personalized photo coasters, glass etched bowls and decoupage picture frames.  This year let’s focus on easy gifts you can mix up in your kitchen.

• Fudge, candy, breads and cookies – you’ve already done the baking and the cooking, why not share the wealth.   Rachael Ray has a recipe for fudge that cooks up in 5 minutes.  You can’t beat that.
• Soup mixes – you supply the pasta, the seasoning, beans and a pretty jar and they supply the meat and broth.  Quick, easy and perfect for the winter.
• A booklet of some of your favorite recipes – You know you have them, those recipes that friends ask you for over and over.  Why not print them up, bind them and share them with your friends.  Be sure to package it with a sample or two
• Bottle your own cocktail mixers – a little something extra to bring along with that bottle of vodka.  Apricot Ginger Fizz, oh my!  Gotta love that Martha!
• Bath & body treats – a couple years back we posted some recipes for bath oil, sugar scrubs, bath salts, and more.  They’re so quick and easy to make and most don’t require more than a quick trip to the pharmacy.
• Don’t forget the dogs and cats – how about some homemade dog treats or some homemade cat treats?

For still more quick and easy ideas, check out the Food Gifts section of AllRecipes.com or just do a search for “food gifts”

And just because it really is one of the easiest things I think I’ve ever made, I’m including Martha Stewart’s No Knit Scarf even though it’s not something you’d likely be making in your kitchen (but who am I to judge).  It took about 3o minutes to make once I got the hang of things.  I made one for my sister-in-law and another for a girlfriend and both wear them all the time.  It’s perfect for those not-so-chilly winter days.

If time completely runs away from you and you do decide to go the gift card route just be sure to take into consideration some of RetailMeNot’s basic do and don’ts – especially with so many store closings going on these days.

12/14 – TINY LOVE GYMINI MUSICAL KICK & DISCOVER MAT

When Tiny Love first introduced the Gymini, the company could not have anticipated that 15 years later it would become the most essential gift at baby showers around the world. Tiny Love Gymini offers baby an engaging and feature-rich developmental environment. The portable kick pad, with its engaging mirror and touch-sensitive effects, is a detachable, stand alone component that is as conveniently useful out in the yard, in baby’s crib or in the car as it is on the Gymini. Fun accessories dangle on the flexible overhead arches, encouraging baby to uncover a wealth of sounds, colors and textures.

12/15 – ELF ON THE SHELF

“The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition,” is the answer to the age-old question of how Santa really knows who’s been naughty or nice.  The story is about the legend of a pixie-elf who visits homes and reports back to Santa each night.  Each book comes with its very own elf that children can name and register at elfontheshelf.com.  This year, the Elf on the Shelf is launching a new, 3D interactive North Pole that families can enjoy for countless hours while they eagerly anticipate the holidays.  Perfect gift for any household with kids.

12/16 – AUTOGRAPHED SCIENCE BOOK PACK

Janice VanCleave knows how to make science fun.  This holiday season she’s put together a package with two two hands-on autographed science experiment books, packaged in a red totebag as an extension of her “Janice VanCleave’s Big Book of Play and Find Out Science Projects.”  This is a great gift for the inquisitive student or science teacher.

12/17 – ROADTRIP DREAM BOOK PACK

Don’t dream any longer, make it happen.  Take your show on the road.  “Live Your Road Trip Dream” is loaded with valuable and practical advice to help you plan the extended road trip of a lifetime for the cost of staying at home. This award-winning, information-packed, how-to guide includes worksheets, budgeting tips, helpful resources, checklists, and trip-tested advice – everything you need to know for planning that long, rambling, care-free trip you’ve always dreamed about.

12/18 – MD SKINCARE EZ4U 4-in-1 FACIAL TREATMENT

Finally, a high performance skincare regimen in a pocket-size package for those seeking rejuvenated skin throughout the day! In less than 20 seconds, a simple swipe of this handy towelette will effectively cleanse, repair, firm & moisturize skin. Unlike any other towelette on the market, EZ4U provides the convenience of 4 skincare products (a cleanser, toner, wrinkle fighter and moisturizer) in one portable pad. Applications are individually wrapped to ensure portability and preserve the potency of advanced ingredients. Refresh throughout the day or as needed for best results – perfect for individuals on-the-go. A great gift for that frequent traveler or gal on the go.

12/19 – THE GREEN BEAUTY BOOK

Go green and get gorgeous. The promise of beauty is as close as the drugstore aisle—shampoo that gives your hair more body, lotions that smooth away wrinkles, makeup that makes your skin look flawless, and potions that take it all off again. But while conventional products say they’ll make you more beautiful, they contain toxins and preservatives that are both bad for the environment and bad for your body—including synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, and even formaldehyde. In the end, they damage your natural vitality and good looks.

Fortunately, fashion writer, nutritionist, and beauty maven Julie Gabriel helps you find the true path to natural, healthy, green beauty. She helps you decipher labels on every cosmetic product you pick up and avoid toxic and damaging chemicals with her detailed Toxic Ingredients List. You’ll learn valuable tips on what your skin really needs to be healthy, glowing, and youthful. Julie Gabriel gives you all the information you need to go green without going broke and become a more natural, healthy, and beautiful you.

12/20 – SALT PIG

We’ve heard about salt cellars and admit to being a little skeptical about The Salt Pig, but we tried it and thought you should to. Once you own one of these, you can’t live a day without it. Fill the mouth with salt and place in an area where you enjoy cooking. Salt is conveniently ready for you to use in a nice-looking vessel. The dome shape and clay keeps salt dry, even during the most humid of summers. Designed and hand created by Lynne Killion, a potter in Birmingham, Alabama.

12/7 – YOGA FOUNDATIONS WITH HILLARY RUBIN DVD

Yoga Foundations with Hillary Rubin is a great DVD, perfect for beginners and those who already do yoga.  In a class environment, you’ll learn how to stand on your feet with confidence, get stronger through transitions and breathe with greater awareness. In a class environment, discover how to: stand on your feet with confidence, get stronger through transitions and breathe with greater awareness.  The I Am Not A Mess™ Series is a new approach to yoga DVDs, offering yoga not just as fitness, but as an all-encompassing set of holistic tools for creating a healthier lifestyle. Be sure to check out Hillary’s yoga podcasts.  Perfect for the yoga lover or someone considering giving yoga a shot.

12/8 – EUFORA URGENT HAIRCARE GIFT PACK

Eufora’s Urgent Repair Treatment set is a great way to rescue hair from winter’s wrath.  Harsh winter weather can leave hair feeling brittle and dry.  Pamper your hair with Eufora Urgent Repair Shampoo and Urgent Repair Replenishing Treatment. Both are based in certified organic aloe vera gel and are completely eco-friendly – in fact, the shampoo was developed with the assistance of an Elle Magazine beauty editor and is 100% biodegradable. I’ve been using Eufora’s Curl’n Defining Solution and their Curl’n Spray Revitalizer and can’t rave about them enough.  One of the products for styling curly hair, it leaves your hair soft to the touch.

12/9 – PEVONIA BOTANICA SPA CARE FOR HIM SET

Let Pevonia Bontanica rescue your favorite guy from his active lifestyle, daily skin aggression from shaving, photo-damage and the absence of a skincare program.  This can all quickly take their toll on his skin.  Get his instead to integrate a simple yet effective regimen to visibly preserve a youthful, recharged appearance. Let him empower his skin to fight the aging process while preventing razor burn, sensitivity and folliculitis. Select phyto-extracts and anti-aging elements such as: Caviar Extract, Portulacca, Green Tea, Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin C & E, and Arnica, powerfully address your skin’s unique needs.  Just the sort of thing to pamper your guy.

12/10 – BABY MONKEY ONESIE

Baby Monkey’s line of onesies and tee shirts are not only adorable, they’re also unique with their Feng Shui-inspired designs and printed on 100% organic cotton.  They would be great gifts for eco-conscious families, Feng Shui & yoga practitioners as well as your favorite new mom.

12/11 – 6-MONTH SUPPLY DROPPS LAUNDRY DETERGENT

What Would Santa Use to Wash His Beloved Red Suit?  This holiday season, many shoppers will be looking for gifts that give back. Dropps – the new, super-concentrated, Eco-friendly liquid laundry detergent that comes in convenient, dissolvable “toss-and-go” packs—is the perfect stocking stuffer for people seeking new and simple ways to go green and reduce their personal footprint on the environment.  Dropps are biodegradable and NPE- and phosphate-free, and dropps is the only liquid laundry detergent packaged in 100% recyclable PETE packaging. dropps offers a convenient way to protect the environment — the highly concentrated formula is made without the water that traditional laundry detergents needlessly waste. As a result, less packaging and less fuel are required to transport Dropps.  Perfect for anyone that’s tired of schlepping their laundry detergent to the laundromat week after week.

12/12 – BOCA BETH BEGINNER BILINGUAL SPANISH BACKPACK

Boca Beth fun bilingual products for children ages birth on up through ten.  Boca Beth make it easy for parents and teachers to introduce Spanish right alongside English with music and movement fun!  You’ll no longer question if you can give the gift of a second language to your child.  What a fun and educational gift for your little nieces, nephews or dear little ones.

12/13 – WHISK(E)Y, RUM AND THE AMERICAN BAR BOOK SET

Once again, Abbeville Press brings us the perfect collection for the bar man in your life.  The world has fallen in love all over again with rum. Now among the world’s top four spirits, rum sales continue to increase steadily. Its popularity notwithstanding, this is the first full-color reference book to detail the history, various production processes, and manifestations of rum. Rum is the only full-color, illustrated guide to the history, subtle varieties of style and flavor, and the culture surrounding one of the world’s favorite beverages.

Featuring more than 1,000 entries, hundreds of illustrations and an impressively detailed text, Whisk(e)y is the ultimate handbook for whisk(e)y lovers. The intriguing history of whisk(e)y is woven throughout, as is the most up-to-date information, including the most recent developments in the industry and a complete listing of brands and companies by country. With so much information, and more than 500 charming illustrations by Günter Mattei, this handsome volume is a must-have for all whisk(e)y lovers.

This “bar bible” provides recipes for mixing the perfect drink, classical or exotic, and offers tips on serving it correctly. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just relaxing with a cocktail, let world-renowned bartender Charles Schumann be your guide to mixing masterful libations. American Bar—the most authoritative cocktail book ever published—provides all the information the cocktail lover or professional bartender needs to serve up the perfect drink.

I lost my mom to breast cancer when I was four, so I know no other way to be in the world than with grief in my heart. It’s “old hat” to me, it’s just a part of me that seems like it’s always been there. I’m in an odd way, comfortable with it, so it somehow brings me peace to be able to comfort others who are struggling with grief and loss.

With that said, I guess it makes a lot of sense that I would end up starting a pet memorials company (peternity.com). It’s just not what I ever imagined that I would end up doing. But I like that about life. The unexpected. The surprises.

In 1970 when I lost my mom, things were different and families didn’t have a lot of options for grief support. We got through it somehow and I think I turned out alright, but it wasn’t easy and I wouldn’t wish the loss of a parent or family member on any child. Lucky for me and my sister, we have remarkable Father.

I’ve always wanted to find a way to reach out to children who have suffered significant losses and to somehow help them. Being that most children’s first experience with death is through the loss of their pets, I decided that this would be a wonderful place to start.

There are many other creative ways that you can help your child to take an active part in honoring the life of their pet, and without spending a lot of money. At Peternity, we’ve created a special product  called Kidoodlyrocks to help grieving children. Kidoodlyrocks are pet grave markers onto which we engrave children’s drawings of their pets.  Engaging children in the creative process really helps to shift their focus from the pain and the sadness to something; something fun, honorable and meaningful.

The best ways for children to work through grief is by expressing their feelings – through writing, drawing, dancing, anything creative that helps them to get in touch with their feelings and get their feelings out and expressed.

Children are empowered when given the opportunity to help create the memorial to their dear pet. When children have something creative to focus on their focus shifts and they stop dwelling on the sadness and the pain so much. This makes space in their heart for some healing to begin.

Creative activities also give you the parent or caregiver an opportunity to talk about what your child has created and the feelings behind the creations. Having a project in motion gives you a forum, to help your child/children address their sadness. You can sit with them and draw them out of their sadness and confusion by asking questions about the animal they loved so much: how they felt about them, their memories, what made them laugh, etc.

You can be the impetus to help your child create any number of types of memorials. Here are some ideas:

• A special box that you decorate together that can hold all of your pet’s treasures like the collar, tags, photos, favorite toys.
• Flowers that you plant together in the yard in your pet’s memory, maybe in your cat’s favorite spot to lie in the sun, or your dog’s favorite spot to lounge in the yard.
• A book that you create together that chronicles all of your favorite stories, memories and photos of your pet.

These precious shared moments, dedicated to encouraging your child to express their joys, laughter and sadness through words and drawings, can work wonders with recovery for both of you. You will also be helping your children to lay a foundation for life, a foundation that will help to support them in dealing with other losses that they will experience later in life.

Colleen Mihelich is the founder & creative director of KidoodlyRocks.com and Peternity.com.  For more information in helping to deal with the loss of a pet, check out Peternity’s blog.

11/30 – JOE’S JEANS

Joe’s Jeans are loved celebrities and the general public.  They’re fashionable and comfortable and can help you look and feel your best. The perfect gift for YOU!

12/1 – YOUR NOVEL

This holiday season, passionate couples everywhere can quicken their pulses with a personalized romance novel from YourNovel.com. The customized capers come in both naughty or nice (“wild” or “mild”) versions. Each book is personalized throughout with more than 25 details about the starring couple crafted from an online questionnaire, such as their names, hometown, places of work, eye and hair color, best friends, favorite perfume, cologne and music, affectionate nicknames for one another, and how long they’ve been a couple.

12/2 – CIRCLE OF SENTIMENTS STAMPED CHARM NECKLACE

Simple and classy, Circle of Sentiments‘ trendy name necklaces can be worn with a pair of jeans or a little black dress! Each copper or sterling silver, personalized necklace is available in 3 popular sizes: petite, classic and grand with that hand stamped embossed look…. this is what makes them such unique necklaces and perfect for the proud mom or grandmother.

12/3 – MY LI’L FARMHOUSE WAGON

From the fine folks at Corner Stork Baby Gifts, for the best-dressed baby in the barn! This unique and delightful eight-piece layette baby gift set is “corny” on purpose – check out that cute corn rattle! A whole farm full of adorable animals comes rolling in on the keepsake, burlap-lined wooden wagon, which becomes charming nursery décor perfect for holding small toys or other baby essentials. What an adorable gift for the little one in your life.

12/4 – JUST BE TEES

Just Be is a state of mind…a way of life…a philosophy.  It’s a new line of tees not meant to inspire…but to Just Be.  These tees allow how you feel. Each shirt has it’s own saying – be fabulous, be crazy, be flirty, be sweet, be cool, be muddy, be punk, be beautiful, be yourself, be whatever…just BE.

12/5 – SPEED RACER VIDEO GAME

Speed Racer: The Videogame for PlayStation®2 was released on September 16, 2008 along with the DVD version of the fast action film, Speed Racer.  Set in a hyper-realistic world where car culture is the culture, players compete in the World Racing League against up to 25 different racers across rollercoaster-like race tracks.  Players will enjoy a combative racing experience like no other when they take control of each T180 race car, achieving amazing speeds and mastering four independently turning wheels that allow drivers to engage in “Car-Fu” to jump, flip, and outmaneuver their opponents.  Speed Racer: The Videogame captures the action, look and feel of the high adrenaline arena racing developed for the film in an accessible, fun-filled game that allows players to actually get behind the wheel on incredible tracks straight out of the world of Speed Racer.

12/6 – THE LITTLE STAMP CO. PRINT/SIGNATURE STAMP

The ‘Signature’ stamps from The Little Stamp Company allow children to stamp, trace and learn to print in an engaging and interactive way.  Little ones will enjoy learning to print their own names with the large connect the dot letters and funky ink colors.  Children easily trace their names on coloring pages, thank you, birthday and holiday cards, artwork and more – no more boring worksheets!  The customized all-in-one stamps provide mess free fun while parents are assured with the eco-friendly and child safe ink. These stamps are fun, useful and educational – makes a great holiday gift!

Like most sites, we’ve covered the basics for Black Friday previously. This time we thought we’d point out some alternatives to the crazy early mornings and hectic, dazed shoppers.

TodaysMama conducted a Holiday Economic Survey earlier this year and found that over 80% of those surveyed plan to curb their holidays spending this year.  Brad Wilson, editor-in-chief of bradsdeals.com says that  “These are difficult times for holiday shoppers and day-after-Thanksgiving deals aren’t just for the frugal. With increases in unemployment, foreclosures, gas prices and food prices, as well as decreases in consumer credit, discretionary spending and overall confidence, consumers will spend more on Friday, November 28th, but spend less overall during the 2008 holidays. ” Brad’s suggestions, stay disciplined, don’t give in to those impulise buys and stick to your plan!

For Those of You That Will be Braving the Crowds

Jennifer Melnick Carota, author, speaker and expert “giveologist” known as The Gift Therapist suggests that shoppers play it safe and  “keep a detailed list of the credit/debit cards that you keep in your shopping wallet in a safe place at your home.  Be sure to include the card name, account number and customer service phone number.  Should you loose your wallet or have it stolen, having quick access to this information will save you valuable time and stress should this unfortunate experience happen to you.

Judy Colbert, the publisher of Smart Shopping Montreal advises, “be careful when buying gift cards as some have expiration dates and some have monthly charges if the card isn’t used. Buy a mall gift card instead of an individual store gift card, particularly if the store is going out of business or in bankruptcy.”

Seasoned Black Friday shopper and event specialist, Marissa Sweazy suggests “Once you have your list complete, look at which store you would like to purchase the most items at and see if you have any coupons. Always, go to the store with the biggest coupon first. For example, Macy’s will probably offer a “First 100 people in the door get a $25-$50 gift card…” Go there first..but if the doors open at 6am you had better be there at 5am!”

If you’re in the malls already, don’t ignore stores that don’t advertise – they will be running promotions as well.

For Those Looking for Alternatives to Shopping the Stores

Did you know that Etsy will also be having Black Friday sales?  According to Etsy artisian, Phyllis Mufson, the promotion runs from Black Friday through Cyber Moday (11/27 – 12/1) there will be over 200 artists, crafters and artisans participating in Etsy Fest.  To find which stores and artisans are participating in the event, just do key word search using “EtsyFest”. You’ll be able to shop for one of-a-kind, creative and unusual presents for everyone on your list; jewelry, clothing and accessories, children and baby gifts, cards and scrap book supplies, fine arts, ceramics, gifts for the home, and much, much more.

And then there’s always online shopping.  Some sales have started as early as Thanksgiving Day. The folks over at CNET.com recommend the following sites to to make your Black Friday shopping easier : BlackFriday.info and FreeShipping.org for free shipping information.  Then there’s also the online coupon sites like UltimateCoupons.com to check for additional coupon codes and comparison shopping sites like PriceGrabber.com.

The gang over at ShopGadgetGirl.com suggest to “preplan your online strategy. Make getting the deals easy on you by doing a little advance work. One of my favorite tricks is to put the product in my online shopping cart and log out before purchasing. This way my credit card information is already in place, the product is already selected so no need to waste time finding it and all I have to do is hit “submit” when the deal starts.

Once all the dust has setttled and you’re ready to catch your breath and grab a bite, know that T.G.I. Friday’s has and offer to give members of its loyalty program a free dessert with the purchase of an entree during Black Friday weekend.  Talk about the cherry on top to all your bargain hunting.

If all of this is just too much and the mere thought of shopping drives you crazy, just know that you can always abstain and instead participate in Buy Nothing Day.

11/23 – MY SO-CALLED FREELANCE LIFE BOOK

Tired of clocking in and losing out? Want to pursue creative, fulfilling work on your own time and also make a living in the process? My So-Called Freelance Life is a how-to guidebook for women who want to avoid the daily grind and turn their freelance dreams into reality. Michelle Goodman, author of The Anti 9-to-5 Guide and self-proclaimed former “wage slave,” offers tips, advice, how-to’s, and everything else a woman needs to pursue a freelance career.  Goodman answers all of the unusual questions that may arise for women exploring the freelance world. Far more than your normal business guidebook, My So-Called Freelance Life blends candid, humorous anecdotes from a wide variety of freelancers with Goodman’s own personal experiences as a creative worker for hire.  Perfect gift for that friend or family member that’s ready to break away from the cubicle.

11/24 – M.B. CAREY & CO INGREDIENTS ULTRA MOISTURIZING SCRUB

I don’t know about you, but as soon as fall seems to strike, my skin gets so dry and itchy.  M.B. Carey & Co. Ltd. has the ideal solution: INGREDIENTS scrub in patchouli/pine scent that is perfect for the holiday season.  INGREDIENTS products are formulated to blend natural components including essential oils, moisturizers and exfoliants into a scrub that is both luxurious and effective. Company founder Melissa Carey created the products to soothe and improve the appearance of her own skin after a natural, 100-lb. weight loss. A single use of INGREDIENTS Ultra-Moisturizing Scrub removes dead skin and moisturizes the new layers that are revealed. With continued use, skin continues to show improvement.  A great gift for anyone that needs added moisture and an aromatic exfoliant.

11/25 – ASSORTED URBAN COOKIES PACKAGE

Are you looking for tasty cookies to give for a special occasion?  Let Urban Cookies provide those cookies for you.  They use only the freshest and highest quality, organic ingredients from select purveyors.  They believe in social responsibility and working towards creating less waste in their production – they use recyclable packaging, and support their local community with financial pledges, volunteer time and sharing the goodness of cookies with local charities.  When thinking about what to send to your clients, think Urban Cookies.

11/26 – FATHER KNOWS BEST BOOK SET

Armin Brott – or Mr. Dad as he’s more commonly known – knows what it’s like to be a father.  He has written on fatherhood for the New York Times Magazine, Newsweek, Washington Post, American Baby, and Parenting. He is the host of a weekly radio show on parenting.  Abbeville Press offers Mr. Dad’s best-selling series on parenting handbooks for expectant and new dads: The Expectant Father, The New Father, and A Dad’s Guide to the Toddler Years.  A great gift for the expectant or new dad.

11/27 – ORGANICALLY HATCHED – BIBBITY BIB & FOOGO STAINLESS STEEL STRAW BOTTLE

Organically Hatched prides themselves on bringing you the best organic baby products. They find high quality organic baby gifts including organic baby skin care, organic baby clothes, and other organic gifts. They have many organic gifts for parents, infants and children.

11/28 – 18” AKOYA PEARL NECKLACE

PearlParadise.com offers the most stunning, classic pieces features incredibly lustrous white akoya sea pearls with an intensely high luster and unparalleled shine! Each brilliant, flawlessly round, pearl captures the light and delivers it back in warm, brilliant hues. Their exquisite pearls have a mirror-like reflection due to their thick nacre, and each is individually knotted on silk thread. Simply beautiful for the classically beautiful woman in your life.

11/29 – GORILLA POD GO-GO!

The Gorillapod Go-Go! is a one-of-a-kind mobile entertainment kit that allows you to position or attach your handheld devices almost anywhere. From cell phones, to MP3/MP4 players, to PDAs, to digital cameras, the Go-Go! can handle practically any device in virtually every situation.  We’ve used the standard, original Gorilla Pod for my digital camera while on vacation and love it.  A perfect gift for the traveler or tech-geek on your list.

11/16 – POTTY TOTS TRAINING KIT

Are you ready to make the leap to potty training?  Then check out The Potty Tots Potty Training Program. It’s a unique system that is child-centered and focuses on the need for a fun, stress-free potty training experience.  This unique kit consists of a storybook, animated DVD with bonus music videos, step-by-step illustrated potty chart and the “Toilet Bowl” game (fashioned after the Super Bowl) for keeping track of progress and success.  This highly interactive program addresses multiple learning styles, encouraging kids to participate and ultimately fosters confidence, self-esteem and independence. This unique product consists of a storybook, animated DVD with bonus music videos, step-by-step illustrated potty chart and progress and rewards game.  In addition to the potty training kit, the company also has launched an interactive web site.  What a fun way to help your son or daughter master potty training.

11/17 – ZEN BABY DVD

The Zen Baby DVD, is an award-winning, nature-based DVD for infants and toddlers that helps to create a relaxing atmosphere in the home.  Zen Baby celebrates the simple beauty of the world and encourages our children’s natural sense of wonder with its artful and whimsical images set to a backdrop of delightful original musical compositions of Brazilian body percussion, piano, and acoustic guitar.  Zen Baby has gained mom-to-mom word-of-mouth popularity across the country with parents who enjoy watching it together with their little ones as part of their end of the day routine. Celeb moms Brooke Shields, Reese Witherspoon, and Leah Rimini are also fans! A great gift for new moms.

11/18 – IT’S IN THE BAG BOOK SET

Is Your Wardrobe Sabotaging Your Career?  Could it make a better impression on clients and colleagues? Do the colors flatter you? Are you ready for any social event or location?  Wouldn’t you like to travel “footloose and fancy free,” able to follow your own inclinations at every turn, without the burdens and constraints of heavy luggage? Many people of all ages have found they can travel successfully, and well dressed too, with just one carry-on bag. Now you can learn their tricks to gain control of your wardrobe and to become an expert traveler with the It’s In The Bag series.

11/19 – TOM PETTY, ELTON JOHN, ROLLING STONES DVDs

Need an idea for that guy in your life.  Check out these classic rock DVDs.  Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin’ Down a Dream – a 2 DVD, director’s cut, behind-the-scenes film by Peter Bogdanovich (who knew the life and career of TP and the Heartbreakers was so fascinating), a CD of the 30th anniversary concert from Gainsville, Florida and a bonus CD featuring rare and unreleased tracks. Elton John: Dream Ticket Four Destinations Four DVDs – over 70 songs and 7 hours of Elton’s greatest performances including rare footage.  Rolling Stones: Four Flicks -  the ultimate Rollings Stone Live collection with two behind-the-scenes documentaries and over 50 songs and a behind-the-scenes documentary.

11/20 – BETTY B. DESIGNS NECKLACE & EARRINGS

Betty B. Designs by surfer Donna von Hoesslin are eco-friendly, yet elegant in their own unique way, offering sustainable style not just in the materials being used, but also in terms of timelessness.  This very versatile Sula lariat can be worn as a necklace or a belt. Wrap, tie, twist or braid the strands any way you like and expect a lot of compliments. Matching earrings are made from recycled handmade glass with .925 sterling silver.  What a fun and beautiful gift idea for your friends or niece.

11/21 – LISA HOFFMAN NIGHT & DAY DAY LOTION SPF 15

Years of following around her actor husband (that would be Dustin Hoffman), Lisa Hoffman was always looking for the perfect skincare products.  This lightweight moisturizer supplies beneficial compounds to improve dry skin conditions. It incorporates SPF 15 and other critical sunscreen ingredients to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation that leads to skin drying, and premature aging such as lines and wrinkles.  For your travel-loving friends, be sure to also check out her line of single-dose travel ampules.

11/22 – PARENTING TWINS BOOK SET

Susan M. Heim knows parenting.  More importantly, she knows what it’s like to parent twins.  She is the married mother of four sons—two teenagers and twin preschoolers.  Susan is the founder of TwinsTalk, a website where parents share tips and advice about raising twins and multiples and is also an author and editor, specializing in parenting, multiples, and women’s issues. She is a former Senior Editor for the bestselling Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Consider this double-set of autographed books by Susan M. Heim for families with twins: It’s Twins! Parent-to-Parent Advice from Infancy Through Adolescence and Twice the Love: Stories of Inspiration for Families with Twins, Multiples and Singletons for your friends with twins or mulitples.

11/9 – SHOE MENORAH FROM POPJUDAICA

If you’re wishing to receive a pair of Manolo Blahniks for Chanukah this year, this fabulous shoe menorah is the next best thing. Just imagine – a shoe for every night! Add a little sole to your menorah lighting with this 16 1/2″ long resin shoe menorah.  Be sure to check out PopJudaica.com for all your Chanukah gift needs.

11/10 – LAUNDRY TREE SOAPNUT STARTER PACKAGES

Did you know that there’s a FRUIT that will get your laundry clean?  It’s TRUE! Soapnuts are the fruit of a tree (Sapindus Mukorossi), found primarily in India, Indonesia, and Nepal, and they are an EXCELLENT alternative to traditional detergents. And they WORK — they really, really work! They are 100%, totally natural. They are organically grown and are chemical-free, and they are incredibly gentle on clothes AND skin. They are especially great for those with sensitive skin — including babies and those that suffer from allergies, eczema, and psoriasis! They’re totally biodegradeable, so they’re better for the environment than regular detergent, and they’re antimicrobial, so they’re even good for septic and greywater systems!  Laundry Tree Soapnuts have been used to clean all kinds of fabric for centuries, and are only now gaining popularity in the Americas and Europe as a powerful, yet natural alternative to modern chemical detergents.  What a great gift for your eco-chic friend or family member.

11/11 – SCANDLE LOTION CANDLE

The Scandle is a candle that burns at 2 degrees above body temperature to produce a soothing oil for massage, manicure/pedicure, or daily moisturizer.  Made from 100% natural vegan ingredients including soy butter, shea butter, jojoba, & vitamin E; The Scandle is quickly becoming a coveted treatment and retail product at spas and boutiques both in the US and abroad.  Scandle will be offering limited edition holiday scents and spa treatment gift packs, perfect for your spa-loving friends or your honey.

11/12 – HALLMARK CARD STUDIO 2009 DELUXE

Hallmark Card Studio 2009 Deluxe, affordably priced at $49.99, provides a fast, fun and easy way to create custom cards with over 9,000 Hallmark cards and projects, 16,000 art images and an Event Planner to remind you of important dates. With Hallmark Card Studio, the whole family can get involved and make personalized cards and one-of-a-kind projects that include 3-D cards, photo cubes, frames and mini-albums, calendars, gift tags, invitations, scrapbook pages and more. The software also includes a built-in photo editor and picture placer to include the family’s latest photos directly into the card.
11/13 – ANNE TAINTOR STOCKING STUFFERS

Anne Taintor has been making smart people (and you know who you are…) smile since 1985!  She has a great selection of products with that quirky, contemporary humor and retro graphics that you love.  Just the sort of fun gift for your office swap or your sassy girlfriend or sister.

11/14 – CZELA BELLIES

Everyone deserves to look sexy.  Say “C-Ya!” to Ugly Post Maternity Undies, and “Hello!” to Czela Bellies CesareanWear! Czela Bellies are fun & comfy underwear made specifically for today’s recovering C-section moms.  They’re made from ultra comfy stretch fabrics which can be worn with the waistband either higher, or pushed down lower, as your scar area subsides on the belly. These are the comfy and cool little undies you’ve been searching for!  A perfect gift for your new mom friends.

11/15 – COCO-ZEN TRUFFLES-TO-GIVE

Who doesn’t love chocolate.  Who doesn’t love chocolate truffles handmade from Fair Trade and organic chocolate?  And to think it all started about with new mom, Joyce Kushner taking her son’s nap breaks to experiment with several “harmonious” flavor combinations.  Her truffles were a hit with her friends and family, so she said goodbye to corporate America and went into business for herself.  Thus, Coco-Zen was born – spreading the joy of chocolate “enlightenment” one truffle at a time.  What chocolate lover wouldn’t appreciate a tin of Coco-Zen’s Truffles-to-Go?