2010 Children's Gift Guide
Compiled by Janice Hands

We know your youngsters have provided you with a list of must-have holiday gifts, and you’ll do your best to fulfill at least a few of their wishes. But, everyone loves surprises. Why not consider giving them at least one something totally new and unexpected. A host of the latest in children’s toys, books, and electronics is described below. Take a moment to look them over. You’re sure to find some interesting items to round out even the most specific wish list. Also, be sure to scroll down and check out the helpful sidebars, including “Ways to Save” for the word on websites that will help save you bucks, and “Smart Holiday Spending” full of shopping advice from Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc.

Finally, if you're also looking for gift ideas for the older loved ones on your list, scroll down to our 2010 Gift Guide for Tweens, Teens, and Adults, compiled by Dianne R. McCann.

Have a great holiday!

Suggestions are arranged by category. Within the categories, items are arranged according to age, youngest to oldest. Suggested ages were not available for all products; when provided, they have been included. Prices listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices, provided several months prior to the publication of this guide. Baltimore’s Child cannot be responsible for price or availability changes.

Looking Forward to the Holidays

Kids of all ages can enjoy the anticipation of Christmas day with the Nativity Advent Calendar from Fisher-Price. Starting on December 1, your child adds a soft, stuffed character to the scene daily through December 25 when the Christ child completes the story. Ages 18 mos.-up. $30. Catalog exclusive, 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

This unique set of four wooden Jewish Traditions Puzzles represents Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, Chanukah, and Passover. Prepare for the festival of lights with your child, exploring the rituals featured on the Chanukah puzzle. Ages 3-up. $29.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

Just right for little hands, the 12-piece Plush Nativity Set will familiarize little ones with the story of the nativity. They will enjoy setting up and moving around the 4-inch soft people and animals. The stable closes to hold all the pieces. All ages. $49.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Begin your holiday excitement with a family movie night featuring The Dog Who Saved Christmas Vacation, the sequel to the popular movie The Dog who Saved Christmas. Join the Bannister family again, this time on their trip to a beautiful Rocky Mountain ski lodge where they encounter obnoxious relatives and the hooligans who tried to ruin their Christmas the previous year. A laugh-filled adventure for the whole family. $19.98. Available on amazon.com for pre-order prior to the December 7, 2010 release.

Baby and Toddler

The Plush Turtle Ball Pit provides safe, portable fun for your little one. This charming plush turtle sports a colorful soft shell of many textures and colors and can hold a set of 25 bright, lightweight plastic balls to toss and roll around in. Best of all, it zips up to store the balls when not in use. Ages 6 mos.-3 yrs. Turtle $16.95. Set of 25 balls $4.95. ABC Distributing catalog. www.abcdistributing.com.

Dr. Suess’ One, fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish comes “alive” for your tot with the One Fish, Two Fish Fishbowl, featuring five colorful fish that make a cacophony of interesting sounds. A great tool to teach counting and colors. Ages 9 mos.-up. $24.95. Add the Dr. Seuss classic book for $8.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

These adorable little friends will help your toddler learn to dress with ease. The Learn-to-Dress Dolls feature buttons, laces, ties, and more, for your child to practice 10 dressing skills in all. Choose from “Jake” sporting a baseball cap and carrying a skateboard, or “Emma” complete with purse and teddy bear. These cuddly dolls with removeable clothing are machine washable. Ages 18 mos.-up. $29.95 each. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your little one will enjoy playing with Noah and his friends, two-by-two, with Fisher-Price’s Noah’s Ark. The plastic ark comes in two pieces, with a detachable deck, and contains 20 chunky animals and, of course, Noah. A great way for your tot to re-enact the Old Testament bible story. Ages 1-4. $40. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Chase away those nighttime fears with A Light in the Night, an adorable little stuffed friend that lights up when his tummy is pressed. Any time your tot is frightened, he has only to hug his cuddly pal to brighten up his room and his outlook. Gift set comes with a coordinating board book as well as the super-soft plush friend. Ages 24 mos.-up. $34.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Baby will join the jet set with the Peek-a-Zoom airplane from Bright Starts. This colorful plane has rolling wheels and makes airplane sounds as your child plays. Best of all, three surprise characters, each with its own melodies and sounds, pop out from the top as the plane rolls along. $14.99. Target, Walmart, amazon.com.

It will be hard to resist all the cute baby gifts tucked into Apple Park’s Holiday Gift Crate. Contents include The Apple Park Picnic Pals board book, Picnic Pal soft teething toy, Picnic Pal finger puppet, cotton baby cloth, and one of the five Picnic Pal characters. Choose from Monkey, Lamby, Cubby, Bunny or Ducky. All products are made with eco-friendly materials. $40. www.applepark.com, amazon.com.

Cuddly Friends

Any dinosaur worth his salt has a roar to impress his friends. Big Roarin Rex, a favorite Toy Story 3 movie character, just waits for his young friends to squeeze him, and he roars with the best of them. Squeeze him harder, and his roar is louder. Ages 2-6. $25. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com

These little stuffed friends don’t just cuddle with your youngster, they sing as well. Sing-a-ma-jigs are colorful soft puppies in five colors and styles. Squeeze their tummies and they will sing solo, sing in harmony with one another, or chatter in conversation with your child. Their mouths open as they do, proudly displaying their teeth and tongues inside. Ages 3-up. $13 each. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

These adorable Blanket Babies will be there for your child to hug and cuddle. The collection includes a bear, kitty, and monkey, each with cute faces and detachable blankets. $39.95 set of three. $14.95 each. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Oh, You Beautiful Doll!

The little girl in your life will tire out long before the Play All Day Baby Doll does. This little lady recognizes motion and different playful positions like bouncing, dancing, and more, and she responds with more than 50 sounds and phrases. She is 14 inches tall and dressed in adorable play clothes. Ages 2-up. $35. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com

A spot of tea, anyone? Your little girl can have a delightful afternoon tea with her dolls, serving them on a lovely tea table and chairs just perfect for her 18-inch dolls. This wooden set, painted white, is adorned with pink floral details and includes a table and two chairs. Ages 4-up. $39.99. Be sure to take a look at the coordinating ceramic tea set, also decorated with pink flowers. The service for four comes in a gingham-lined wicker basket. Ages 8-up. $15.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Youngsters of all ages will cuddle up with the Basket of Babies, a collection of six, super-soft 10-inch dolls, nestled in a fabric basket. Each doll has a removable sack dress that matches its permanently attached hat. Six new friends for your child in one basket! All ages. $29.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

All Booked Up!

The All About Me! Personalized Photo Book will appeal to even the tiniest baby, as she turns the soft-sewn pages and sees pictures of all her loved ones. The 8-inch book holds up to nine 4”x6” photos and comes with labels to identify Mommy, Daddy, Grandma, and more. The cover can be personalized with your child’s name and has a space for her picture as well. Ages infant-up. $19.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Young readers and non-readers alike will be pleased with any one of a number of Record a Story books from Publications International, Ltd. As their name implies, these books allow a parent, grandparent, or other special adult to read and record the story which will then play back for the youngster as the pages are turned—a great idea for working or traveling parents, distant grandparents, or military service members away from home. Beginning readers can record their own voices reading the story – a means of encouraging a life-long love of reading. Choose from these titles: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Guess How Much I Miss You, Sesame Street: Together at Heart, or Dora the Explorer. Ages 3-up. $19.99. Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Toys R Us, www.record-a-story.com.

Kids will love this geography lesson—one like no other—for the instructor is an adorable little Jack Russell terrier by the name of Mr. Pish. Kids will accompany him as he takes a cross-country trip from the Atlantic to the Pacific in his book Postcards from Mr. Pish, A Cross-Country Journal by photographer and writer K.S. Brooks. His journey starts on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, continues through New England, Quebec, Ontario, the Midwest, the Badlands, Yellowstone, and concludes in Washington state. Along the way he writes some amazing postcards with facts about the state’s history, geography, and the sights he sees. The photos are excellent, and each page has a small U.S. map pinpointing the spot that Mr. Pish is visiting. $14.95. Sales benefit the Arbor Day Foundation. www.mrpish.com, amazon.com.

Ignite the Imagination

Your tiny carpenter will have all the tools of the trade in his or her very own My (Very Soft) First Tool Box. This adorable soft-sculpture tool set includes a hammer, saw, wrench, screwdriver, and more in a soft carrying box that can be personalized. Ages 6 mos.-up. $24.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

Your preschooler will enjoy being down on the farm with Talk of the Farm. This colorful play mat and toy truck feature Buttercup Farm. As your child pushes the truck over the musical notes, the fun begins with the mat responding in all kinds of imaginative ways. A great way to introduce listening skills, simple phrases, and counting. Ages 18 mos.-up. $39.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

Playtime will be a “blast” with the Space Adventures Spaceship. This colorful plastic space vehicle features lights, countdown, and blast off sounds, and includes two astronauts and their astro dog for lots of pretend play in outer space. Ages 18 mos.-up. $29.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Just about every kid loves dinosaurs. The Dinos on the Go playset offers your child an afternoon of prehistoric fun. The set includes six squeezable, happy-faced dinosaurs and a carrying case that unzips to create a Jurassic playmat. Ages 18 mos.-up. $19.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Straight from Toy Story 3, the Tri-County Landfill will give your youngster hours of imaginative fun. Can Buzz Lightyear escape? Your child can make it happen! Playset includes Buzz Lightyear and Lotso figures, three aliens, three “tires” to launch, three pieces of junk and bulldozer. Ages 3-8. $50. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Kids can build a domino course in myriad designs with Watch This! Domino Designer. In addition to a whopping 150 colorful dominoes, the play set includes a rolling locomotive to fill with dominoes and set in motion; a looping car track with car; a bridge; a gorilla launching a hang glider; and more. All accessories are designed to start the domino chain reaction. Ages 3-up. $29.95. Additional 200 dominoes $9.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Take those Matchbox and Hotwheels cars out of that plain bucket and store them instead in this Super-Rig Carrier. The 24 1/4-inch long, eight-wheel car carrier “rig” can hold up to 44 die-cast cars. The truck even sports a handy built-in handle for portability. Ages 4-up. $37.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Your kids will be able to build just about anything imaginable with Connectagons, a huge assortment of wooden pieces with slots, in an array of colors, patterns, and shapes, that fit together slot-to-slot. Choose from original Connectagons or Connectagons Geometry (each 240 pieces, $24.98), Under-the-Sea Connectagons (234 pieces with storage bag, $29.98), Treetop Connectagons (242 pieces with storage bag, $29.98), Connectagons Butterflies and Flowers (62 pieces, $19.98) or Connectagons Heart-to-Hearts (120 pieces, $19.98). Ages 4-up. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Bouncing around couldn’t be more fun than this. Kids can pretend they’re riding a pony, hopping on the back of a kangaroo, or leaping from lily pad to lily pad on a frog, when they play on these Hippest Hoppers bouncers. These 18-inch rubber balls are covered with soft plush, removable “animal” covers with a friendly face and a handle for hanging on. Choose from pony, kangaroo, or frog. Ages 5-up. $29.95. Sensational Beginnings Toys. 800-444-2147, www.sb-kids.com.

Look close, and you’ll see that the residents of these aquariums are not quite real, but certainly the next best thing. Just fill these attractive little Magic Aquariums with water and a bit of detergent and watch the swimmers swirl and dive just like the real thing. Choose from a frog, fish or crab. Ages 8-up. $15.98 each. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Your youngster can create an entire city with the TOMICA line of die-cast cars, trains, and accessories from TOMY Corp. The line includes seven die-cast cars, three train sets, six accessory sets, six destination sets, and five deluxe play sets that can be laid out in one amazing city. The Mega Station offers a platform for the transportation network, while the police headquarters and fire station play sets are just two of the accessories available for the town. Prices vary. Toys R Us, toysrus.com.

Getting Crafty

Now your youngsters can stow away all their great memories with My Scrapbook Kit. All they need are the photos and mementos—the kit contains the remaining supplies, including a 48-page, spiral-bound scrapbook, design paper, frames, accents, stickers, glitter glue, and even the scissors, providing many happy hours of scrapbooking. Ages 5-11. $19.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Beads are all the rage these days, and your child will love “getting the word out” with the Secret Message Jewelry Kit. The kit includes nearly 1,000 colorful beads that represent specific letters, numbers, and spaces, as well as 20 decoder cards, elastic, and instructions. Ages 6-up. $24.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your young artist will enjoy creating a unique stone plaque with the Kids Mosaic Stone Kit. The kit contains a “stone” mix to combine with water and pour into the included mold, as well as smooth colorful stained glass shapes for embedding in the project—a great decoration for the garden, or a keepsake for your youngster. Ages 7-up. $15.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

The Happily Ever Crafters craft kit from the Discovery Channel store is sure to delight any “crafty” kid. Your child will learn to crochet, embroider, and sew, fashioning nine separate projects including a stuffed dog, coin purse, felt brooch, embroidered bandanna, wall hanging, sewing pouch, hair ribbon, bracelets, and a scarf. All instructions and materials are included in a storage case with lid. Ages 8-up. $47.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

How cozy your youngster will feel nestled in a Knot-A-Quilt that he or she made. Your child simply ties together the fleece squares with fringe to make a colorful quilt to keep warm or use for decoration. Choose from the original Knot-A-Quilt with 48, 9-inch squares in six bright colors ($24.98) or the Starry Sky Knot-A-Quilt with 30, 11-inch squares in night-inspired colors and star patterns ($29.98). Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Outdoor Fun

This riding toy will be with your little one until he is safely on the road by himself. The Rock, Roll ‘n Ride Trike starts out as a rocking toy for your tot. The rocker converts to a parent-assist handle, and your toddler will begin to pedal with help from you. When he’s ready, you remove the handle, and your youngster is happily riding on his own. Everything converts easily—no tools necessary. Ages 1 1/2-5. $50. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

My First Skates from Fisher-Price make learning to skate a breeze. These inline skates have three settings: “skate walk” with wheels locked, roll forward only, and finally, roll forward and backward. Rear wheels are spaced apart for stability, and hook and loop fastenings make on and off easy for little fingers. In Barbie or plain silver styles. Ages 2-up. $25. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Don’t just take a walk in the woods. With Science on a Nature Walk you and your child can hike and enjoy creative field experiments. This kit contains everything you need, including binoculars, butterfly net, magnifying glass, whistle, tracking guide, and more. Ages 4-12. $24.99. National Wildlife Federation Catalog. 800-756-3752, www.shopnwf.org.

There are probably not too many of us in the central Maryland area looking forward to another winter like the one we had last year. But, the Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge may have your whole family looking forward to the first snowstorm of the season. This rugged plastic sled features a lever for steering and stability. At 3 1/2 lbs. it is compact and easy to carry, holds up to 250 lbs. and comes in a variety of colors. Ages 5-up. $39.99. BJ’s, Costco, Target, Toys R Us, amazon.com, discoverystore.com, www.zipfy.com.

A fast-moving game of Spikeball is sure to get your teen off the couch and out into the sunshine. The game includes a hula hoop-sized net, placed at ankle level, and a palm-sized ball. Two teams of two spike the ball onto the net, positioning it so that the rebound goes in the direction of the opposing team. Teams have up to three hits to control the ball and return it to their opponent. If they fail, the other team scores a point. The game is won at 21 points. Great exercise, and lots of fun in the bargain! $49.99. www.spikeball.com.

Get in the Game

Hopscotch isn’t just for outdoors anymore. This Indoor Hopscotch features brightly colored foam pieces from 1 to 10 that fit together like a puzzle. Four tossing markers are included to land on the proper number and be scooped up by your hopping, giggling youngster. Ages 3-up. $35.95. Sensational Beginnings Toys. 800-444-2147, www.sb-kids.com.

These bumper cars look just like the real thing, only in miniature. The Bumper Car Game features two colorful 5-inch bumper cars and two remote controls. Kids bump their opponent’s car, hitting all three bumpers to win the game. Ages 4-12. $29.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Add a bug, take one away! That’s how the Add-A-Bug Math Game is played. Kids roll the dice and move around the game board, adding and subtracting bugs all along the way. The player with the most bugs at the end of the game is the winner. Game includes a bright game board, four game pieces, 45 plastic bugs in four clear storage containers, and two soft dice. Ages 4-up. $24.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

It’s a matching game, it’s bingo, it’s a guessing game, all rolled into one. Animal Tracks will have your youngster matching a variety of animals to their tracks in a number of challenging ways. Ages 5-up. $14.99. National Wildlife Federation Catalog. 800-756-3752, www.shopnwf.org.

Dinosaurs are the play pieces in this Jurassic game. Your children will battle their way to the Dino Cave playing Dino-Bump, a fast-moving board game for two to six players. The game includes a large colorful game board and six 5-inch dinosaurs of various types. Ages 5-up. $24.95. www.luvyduvy.com.

This “hot potato” has the music built right in! Squeeze the Electronic Hot Potato to start the music, pass it around, and whoever is holding it when the music stops is out of the game. The charming silly face on the huggable potato is sure to give everyone the giggles. Ages 5-up. $21.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Hasbro has a new take on two popular games this holiday season. Sorry! Spin features a rotating game board. Getting “home” is even more unpredictable than before. $24.99. Kids will still be all twisted up playing Twister Hoopla, but the difference is they become the game mat as the dots are turned into rings that players use to connect to one another and score points. $19.99. Ages 6-up. Toys R Us, Target, amazon.com.

Watch out for the moldy cheese! While kids are playing the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cheese Touch Game, they’ll encounter many creative, social, and intellectual challenges all around the game board. But, they need to be on their toes—a wrong answer could get them stuck in the stinky cheese that was found on the basketball court. If your youngster enjoys the Wimpy Kid books, he’s sure to have a blast playing this game. Ages 7-up. $19.99. amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, Toys R Us.

The Find It Kids Game is a unique version of “I Spy.” Hidden among a host of colorful beads in a 10-1/2-inch clear cylinder are 48 assorted surprises, waiting to be discovered by your youngster. The challenge is to find all 48. $19.98. The Deluxe version of the game features 84 items, 123 playing cards, a timer, spinner, and scoring pad, making the game more challenging, and even more fun. $34.98. Ages 8-up. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Your child can get in on the chess craze with the Once a Pawn a Time Chess Teacher game. The set includes two full-color storybooks—one introducing the chess pieces and the other game strategy—game board, playing pieces, and velvet storage bag. Ages 8-up. $29.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Learning Fun

Your preschooler can tour the world with the Fly and Discover Talking Globe that features a simple joystick kids use to “fly” around the world, collecting fun facts all along the way. Five learning modes teach about the continents, oceans, animal facts, music, customs, and more. Music and sound effects add to the fun. Ages 3-up. $36.95. National Geographic Catalog. 888-225-5647, www.shopng.org.

Your child can discover an endless array of fascinating facts about our universe while exploring the 3-D Solar System and Talking Planetarium. The 10-inch movable Solar System model features a light-up sun. The interactive planetarium will engage your youngster with pictures and icons to press to hear more than 1,000 facts and challenging questions and answers. Ages 5-up. $44.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Jamie and Adam, the Discovery Channel MythBusters, present some of the best sports myths for your young scientist to confirm or bust in their latest science kit MythBusters Science of Sports Kit. Your youngster will learn that science plays a major role in sports, and a successful athlete will learn to use his or her brain as well as muscles. Why does a curve ball curve? Where is the “sweet spot” on the bat? These and many more myths are in the kit to be tested. Ages 9-up. $19.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

Kids in the Kitchen

If you have an aspiring kitchen helper in your house, he or she will love the Playful Chef Set of child-size utensils. The set includes 10 color-coded utensils to help children choose the right tools for each step in any of the five included recipes. A colorful apron completes the set. Ages 3-6 (red apron), 6-8 (blue apron). $39.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Nickelodeon characters Dora and Diego invite your child to have fun in the kitchen exploring the 50 yummy recipes found in Dora and Diego Let’s Cook cookbook for kids. Your youngster will learn about measuring, stirring, and decorating as she whips up such recipes as Pirate Adventure Pizza Coins and Incan Quinoa Pudding. As an added bonus, she’ll be introduced to a host of Spanish words and phrases. Ages 4-8. $16.95. amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com.


It’s Electric! Electronics for All Ages

Your preschooler will feel just like a big kid with a Wii video game just for him. JumpStart Pet Rescue not only shows kids a good time, but gives them a chance to practice pre-reading, memory, and listening skills. Youngsters explore a jungle, beach, neighborhood, and various other spots on a mission to rescue lost pets. As they progress they earn special virtual rewards, adopt and care for cuddly pets, and design the perfect avatar. Ages 3-6. $19.99. Walmart, Toys R Us, Best Buy, amazon.com.

Your youngster will enjoy learning with the Vtech-MobiGo Portable Learning System. This kid-tough learning device features a slide-out keyboard and touch-screen technology. Your child will be having so much fun he’ll hardly notice he is developing fundamental skills in math, vocabulary, spelling, logic, and more. Ages 3-7. $59.99. Best Buy.

Take any book in your child’s library, and record the story in your own voice for him to play back, using Franklin Electronics’ AnyBook Reader. Just place a special sticker on each page, tap the sticker with the AnyBook Reader device, and record the words on each page. Your youngster then uses the device to tap the stickers to hear your voice as he turns the pages and the story unfolds. A distant relative or a military service person far from home can record a story, and your child will enjoy and recall the sound of his or her voice any time. As an added feature, beginning readers can record their own voices as they discover a new book. Ages 3-up with adult. $39.99 (15 hours), $59.99 (60 hours). www.franklin.com/anybook.

Your holiday celebration will be faithfully recorded by your child using the Crayola 3-in-1 Digital Camera. Just right for little hands, this camera has a rubberized casing to protect it, and a 1-inch square preview screen. It stores up to 102 pix and has “Show & Share Creativity” software built in. The camera will also record short videos. Ages 3-up. $69.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your young secret agent will be thrilled with the Mini Digital 3-in-1 Spy Camera. This nifty wristwatch-size camera, complete with wristband, is expert in still and video photography and serves as a web cam. It takes up to 243 digital photos, and comes with USB cable, software CD, LCD display panel, 12 settings, and, of course, user guide. Ages 8-up. $24.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Take Sesame Street friends along with you wherever you go with a Sesame Street Video USB drive. These drives in the shape of any one of seven of your child’s favorite characters feature a full-length character-themed educational movie, direct access to the Sesame Street website, and memory capacity to store up to 400 songs, photos, or unlimited amount of written content. Not to worry—they are all water-, dust-, and drop-proof. $38.75. amazon.com.

The ever-popular feline, Hello Kitty, now stars in her new video game for Wii, Hello Kitty Seasons. Your youngster will be challenged to create a character and manage SanrioTown populated by such favorite characters as My Melody, Keroppi, Badtz-Maru, Chococat, and others, as well as Kitty herself. Players’ missions change as the seasons change, with new challenges and rewards all along the way. Great fun for the whole family! $29.99. amazon.com.

Here’s a “spider” that’s not likely to have you running from the room. The Skitterbot micro-robotic bug is creepy, crawly, and capable of traveling at the rate of one foot per second. Available in red, blue, clear, and green, the Skitterbot comes with a 5-button remote and a retractable USB charger. Buy several in different colors, and race them; each color operates on a different frequency. $19.99. Radio Shack, Toys R Us, www.mydeskpets.com.

Stocking Stuffers

Talk about bling—these flashy Finger Rings will never go unnoticed. This set of eight light-up jelly rings comes in four different colors. Ages 3-up. $12.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

The Light-Up Slinky is not your father’s slinky, or even the slinky you remember. This slinky “slinks” in the usual way, but your youngster can change its color with the click of a button. Ages 5-up. $9.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

A Gift that Gives Back

Treat your youngster to a cuddly new stuffed animal in a variety of delightful “species” from IKEA, and one euro will be donated by the retailer to UNICEF and Save the Children for educational programs throughout the world. To help out locally, buy a stuffed animal and donate it to the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center Children’s Program. Your purchase will comfort a local child and still generate a euro for the charities mentioned above. $2.99-$14.99. Or purchase a SUNNAN solar-powered lamp in one of a rainbow of colors, and IKEA will donate an identical lamp for a child to read by in a spot around the world with no electricity. $19.99. IKEA stores, www.ikea.com.

Last spring’s oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico brought to light the plight of marine life there and in other parts of the world. For a one-of-a-kind gift, consider giving a satellite-tracked adopted sea turtle from the Sea Turtle Conservancy. The Conservancy sponsors regional and international conservation, education, and research programs. Your recipient will have the privilege of naming his or her adoptee and will be able to track the turtle’s migration online at www.conserveturtles.org. For a donation of $25 he or she will receive a personalized adoption certificate, a Sea Turtle Conservation Guide, a one-year subscription to Sea Turtle Conservancy’s membership publication, and more. Additional membership levels include gifts such as turtle plushes for kids, t-shirts, and holiday ornaments. adoptaseaturtle.org, 800-678-7853. BC


And now for a little shopping advice...


NAPPA Looks Out for the Best Buys for Kids
If you haven’t seen just the right gift in our 2010 Gift Guide, check out the National Parenting Publications Awards’ (NAPPA) “Parenting Resources 2010 Winners” online. NAPPA is one of the oldest and most comprehensive awards programs for children’s products, helping parents make the best choices for their children. Click on “This Year’s Winners!” to find the best age-appropriate toys, books, DVDs, CDs, software, and video games to help round out your holiday shopping list. Visit www.parenthood.com/nappa/parenting_resources_2010.php.

Ways to Save:
Bargain Hunter’s Websites
You’ll find coupons, great deals and savings on clothing for the whole family, toys, electronics, sporting goods, and much more, from scores of companies, including Barnes and Noble, The Gap, JC Penney, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Toys R Us, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kohl’s, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Babies R Us, amazon.com, and hundreds more. Carve out a half-hour or more, and sit down to browse these comprehensive websites loaded with bargains.
DealHunting.com
CurrentCodes.com
DealCoupon.com
GottaDeal.com
Don’t overlook Facebook, where businesses often offer special deals to members on their pages, and Twitter, where you’ll find coupons from popular retailers.

Savings on Video Games and More
If you’re shopping for a gift for a video game fan, or you are one yourself, don’t miss all that www.sayswap.com has to offer. Here you can buy or trade games at greatly reduced prices. Post your list of games to sell or trade and the list of new-to-you games you’re looking for. Sit back and await an offer.
Visit Swap.com, list those video games, books, music, and DVDs that are gathering dust on your shelves, and wait for the website to offer a list of all that is available to you FREE in a direct swap with another Swap user. You pay only the cost of shipping, unless you’re lucky enough to find someone nearby your home to trade with in person.

Smart Holiday Spending
Having looked over this vast array of gifts, is your head spinning? Are you wondering where to begin?
The folks at Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc., a nonprofit educational credit counseling and debt management organization, have some practical advice in their “Holiday Survival Guide.” You can download a free copy of the guide online at www.ConsolidatedCredit.org. Here is just a brief summary with a few tips, hints, and warnings from CCCS to keep in mind.
• Begin your shopping by making a holiday giving budget, and do your best to stick to it. You may want to ask adult family members to set spending limits on gifts or to consider drawing names for giving. Let your youngsters know that there is a budget for their gifts, and ask them to prioritize their wish list. You might want to give them gift cards for some of the items on their lists and hit the mall after the holiday for great bargains.
• Before setting out to shop, make a list of those you are buying for, with possible gift purchases, each marked with a dollar limit. Check newspapers, catalogs, and ads to determine where you need to go to buy and which stores have the best prices on the items on your list. Start your shopping early enough so that there is plenty of time to comparison shop.
• Keep track of how much you’ve spent. And remember, things like taxes, gift wrap, postage, and shipping all add up – budget for them also.
• Consider using cash in lieu of credit. Decide how much you want to spend and take just that amount of money with you shopping. Or use debit cards or your checkbook.
• If you decide to use plastic, use no more than two credit cards – one with a low rate for any purchases that you may need to pay for over a period of time. CCCS recommends that you keep in mind “…you are the best judge of what you can comfortably manage. Just because you have a certain amount of credit available, doesn’t mean you should use all of it between Thanksgiving and New Years. REMEMBER: Never borrow more than you can reasonably pay off. Giving gifts should be a gesture, not a sacrifice.”
• If you are shopping online, use credit cards. If you’re scammed, you generally are not responsible for any more than $50. Shop at companies you’re familiar with. And most importantly when you enter the shopping cart or the e-commerce area of a site, remember that secure servers show “https” instead of simply “http” at the beginning of their website’s address or URL. Don’t include credit card information or personal information like social security numbers in an email - legitimate shopping websites use special forms. Stay away from unsolicited email offers as they are often scams.
With a lot of planning and a little common sense, your holiday shopping can be a pleasurable prelude to the delight of the season.

Happy Holidays!

For Tweens, Teens, and Adults:
2010 Gift Guide

Compiled by Dianne R. McCann

Sometimes it seems that the older your kids get, the harder it becomes to find the right gifts for them—especially if you’re looking for something slightly more creative than giving them cash or gift cards. And then there are the adults on your list. You want to find something thoughtful, but perhaps you’re fresh out of original ideas.
If that’s where you are in your holiday shopping, then it’s a good thing that you’re here. This gift guide is a collection of some of the newer, often lesser-known, products or services for tweens (ages 9 to 14), teens, and adults. And there’s something for just about every price range.
Also, don’t miss the section on charitable opportunities for giving as well as another section offering shopping advice, including tips for safely shopping online from the Better Business Bureau Greater Maryland.

Happy Holidays!

Prices listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices, provided prior to the publication of this guide. Baltimore’s Child cannot be responsible for price or availability changes.

It’s All a Game…with a Twist
The games in this section were chosen for their appeal to various age groups, from tween through adult.

Bet You Know It!
It’s the most inclusive and exciting version of TRIVIAL PURSUIT yet! With this edition, players don't have to know all the answers to win—but they do need to know their friends! TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Bet You Know It edition introduces high-stakes betting to trivia, where players bet on whether or not their opponents know the answer. Players guess correctly to earn chips that can be used to buy wedges, or they can earn wedges by answering questions correctly on their turn. On each turn, players are able to choose their favorite from one of four rotating topic cards in the specially designed "Mixologist" envelope. So, players may answer a geography question about Dogs, Breakfast, Broadway, or Jingles.
The TRIVIAL PURSUIT Bet You Know It cards have 1,800 fresh questions, which also feature a variety of new styles including images and multiple choice. And, with a chance to earn a wedge on every turn, victory is that much closer! For 2 or more players.
Available at major retailers and online, at HasbroToyShop.com and www.Amazon.com. Ages 16 and older. $29.99.

Comedy Makes the Scene
This is the only game that features clips, trivia, and on-screen puzzles from Hollywood’s funniest comedy movie moments! Scene It? Comedy Movies Deluxe Edition features everyone’s all-time comedic favorites, from classics such as Airplane! to recent hits such as The Hangover. Get ready to laugh until you cry when you play this hysterical, one-of-a-kind DVD game! For 2 or more players.
Available at major retailers and online, at www.Amazon.com. Ages 13 and older. $29.99.

Life’s an Adventure!
Set your car pawn on the path and give the spinner a turn to see how it all turns out for you in The Game of Life 50th Special Anniversary Edition game. With all kinds of pitfalls and windfalls lying in your path, there’s no telling who the winner will be. But collect your play money and head toward retirement to see if you get to live out your days in luxury and win! And, in this special edition, five special coins add to the action and bring big rewards if you’ve got them at the end. Hasbro, www.hasbro.com. Ages 9 and older. $17.99.

Not Your Usual Shuffleboard
Zabazoo Corp.’s tabletop GLIDE board offers more than four feet of super sliding fun. It’s also easy to put away and store. Players or teams challenge each other to use just the right amount of force and angle to land their Glide Stone Sliders onto the bulls-eye zone located at each end of the board. Slip, slide, spin, and guide your four Glide Stone Sliders from one end of the board to the other to land your stones in the scoring zone, but not too fast to slide off the end of the board. Only the most skilled players will have the aim to knock an opponent out of scoring range.
Zabazoo incorporates earthly elements into its games and gifts and is “rocking” the toy and game industry with its growing environmentally friendly line of games.
Available at independent and major retailers and online. Zabazoo, www.zabazoo.com. All ages. $29.95.

Puzzle Me This
There are some great new twists on one of the world’s most popular games. Tetris Party Deluxe builds on the previously released Tetris Party for WiiWare by adding new modes and features to enrich the overall game play experience for both Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS. Both versions are jam-packed with more than 20 exciting game modes, online battles, and multiplayer fun for friends and family. A must-have for Tetris and puzzle fans.
Available at major retailers and online, at www.Amazon.com. All ages. $29.99.

Say, You Want a Revolution?
Play the MONOPOLY you know and love on a revolutionary round board with funky new movers. As you are wheeling and dealing your way to a big win, hear sounds and music from the past five decades. When you Go to Jail, you'll hear the door slam, and when you pass GO, you can celebrate with a party tune. In this game, you use cards, not cash to score your favorite properties—so you can watch your balance rise and plummet! This super-stylish MONOPOLY Revolution is full of fun features that will bring your favorite property-trading game to life! Requires 3 AAA batteries (not included). Hasbro, www.hasbro.com. Ages 9 and older. $34.99.

For Sensational Skin

Give the Pure Goodness of Soap
Vermont Soaps are made from a hypoallergenic vegetable base of organic coconut, palm, olive, and palm kernel oils. Aromatherapy essential oils and botanical extracts are used to alter the effects of this moisturizing soap base on skin, providing different blends for different skin types. It takes nearly a month to handcraft a bar of Vermont Soap, and only this 200-year-old process yields a bar of soap suitable for the most sensitive skin.
In addition to its Pure African Shea Nut Butter Balm and the handmade natural aromatherapy bar soaps, Vermont Soap also offers a complete line of liquid soaps, shower gels, nontoxic cleaners, veggie wash, yoga mat wash, and pet and horse shampoos. All products are made with organic ingredients, are free of artificial colors, fragrances, preservatives, and animal by-products, and are not tested on animals. Vermont Soaps' manufacturing operation is certified as a USDA organic processing facility.
Available at health food, gourmet, and specialty stores, and online, at www.vermontsoap.com. Or, by calling 866-SOAP-4U2.

Invigorating Skin Everywhere
Wembé’s eco-luxe soap collection features handmade, organic, multitasking soaps filled with chunks of plants and herbs that add effectiveness for naturally sloughing off dry, dead skin.
Wembé’s loofah exfoliating blend is an almond oil-based soap that is surrounded by a vegetable sponge to provide a firm slough. For a gentle yet effective exfoliation, Wembé’s coconut exfoliating blend combines two types of coconut pulps with rich essential oils and moisturizing butters. The tropical blend gently scrubs away those winter woes and leaves the skin ready to bare in the summer heat. Additional exotic exfoliating blends from Wembé include the Yerba Mate, Black Clay, and Green Blue River blends.
A South American company based in New York City, Wembé’s soaps are made of ingredients almost entirely from Paraguay.
Available online, at www.wembe.com.

Get Carried Away

Eco-Chic for a Cause
For 10 years, a women's cooperative in the Philippines has been utilizing used, colorful, and non-biodegradable juice containers that would otherwise clutter the landfills, fields, and streets of their community to create one-of-a-kind Bazura Bags and Accessories. Their handcrafted and eclectic products add glamour to recycled goods while helping to clean the environment and support the livelihood of less fortunate, but empowered women and their families.
Bazura Bags and Accessories are available in more than 80 styles in a variety of colors and patterns. In addition to the products made from the recycled juice containers, Bazura Bags and Accessories are also made from other recycled materials such as rice bags and advertising banners.
In addition, to aid the Women's Co-Operative recover from the devastating 2009 typhoon, Bazura Bags is offering a Free Bonus Bag Program through Dec. 15. See the website for details.
Available at retail outlets and online, at www.bazurashop.com. $5.00-$60.00.

Keep Track of the Cards
This handy device offers a solution for shoppers who want to be organized while staying fun and fashionable. The Card Cubby is a stylish new "wallet" that allows your favorite shopper to alphabetize gift cards, frequent buyer cards, coupons, and more in one convenient location.
The Card Cubby complements any purse, or it can be carried solo with the mini strap. Priced under $20, it comes in 16 designs and colors such as Passion Pink, Lemon Drop, and Zany Zebra.
Available online, at www.TheCardCache.com. $12.99.

No Fashion Sacrifice for Function
Amy Michelle bags are not just a pretty face! They help women set boundaries and maintain order, offering both fashion and function. Stylish yet durable, Amy Michelle Go Totes feature versatile compartments perfect for travel, work, or baby. Go Totes offer pockets for water or bottles, attachments for strollers or luggage, top zip closure, five internal pockets for organization, adjustable shoulder strap, bright lining, easy-to-find key ring, and optional changing pad for baby.
Amy Michelle is a woman-owned company specializing in fashionable tote bags and accessories, designed for the busy lifestyle and organizing needs of today’s women.
Available at specialty baby boutiques, fine baggage stores, and select Internet sites, including www.amymichelle.com.

Organize Your Purse with Pouchee
Designed by a mom who hates hunting for stuff in her purse, Pouchee, the Ultimate Purse Organizer, fits inside large handbags and totes to keep all those small but essential items easily accessible.
Available in dozens of bright, rich colors in “Outback” leatherette or 100 percent cotton, the pouch is topped with handy metal-tone rings for ease in changing purses and bags. Nine outside pockets hold pens, sunglasses, mobile phone, credit cards, and keys. The two inside pockets are perfect for lipsticks or a small flashlight, with a zippered pocket for change or personal items. Inside dividers keep everything organized with a strong magnetic-snap closure.
Available online, at www.pouchee.com.

For Your Furry Friend

Think Globally—Act Doggedly
Planet Dog products—grooming supplies, collars, leashes, and treats—make great gifts for dogs and dog lovers and are covered by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Planet Dog is donating 2 percent of the purchase of every Planet Dog product to the Planet Dog Foundation (PDF) to support canine service programs nationwide. PDF provides cash grants to programs that train, place, and support dogs that help people in need. Also, PDF receives 100 percent of the profits from the sale of Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff Glow for Good Ball. This bouncy, minty glow-in-the-dark ball has been a bestseller since its launch in 2006.
Finally, how about a little something for the dog-lover on your gift list? Don’t miss the selection of clever t-shirts, bumper stickers, more!
Check out the Planet Dog Foundation, at www.planetdogfoundation.org.
Available online, at www.planetdog.com. Prices vary.

Puppy Goes Platinum
Platinum Pets offers fashion and sparkle to dog or cat leashes, collars, and bowls. The products feature a high-gloss finish that is durable and dishwasher safe. Also, they are eco-friendly and are made in the U.S.
Available online, at www.Amazon.com. $7.99-$19.99.

Yum! Give Great Goodies

Gourmet Gifts to Go
Oh, what fun the holiday season can be with sweet and delicious treats from Edible Gifts Plus! With an extensive collection of decorative goodies, Edible Gifts Plus offers the perfect solutions for stocking stuffers, secret Santas, gifts for family and friends, holiday party desserts, and just scrumptious treats to have around the house during the holiday season. The best-selling gourmet treats include festive sugar cookies, chocolate-covered Oreos, personalized photo cookies, and giant chocolate-coated fortune cookies. Also featured are gift baskets, spa gifts, sugar-free treats, and much more.
Available online, at www.ediblegiftsplus.com. Prices vary.

I See Seafood...
Searching for the perfect gift for the foodies on your list this holiday season? Think Phillips Seafood and give the gift of seafood with a Clam Bake for Two or their Famous Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes.
The Clam Bake for Two includes two 1 1/2-lb. lobsters, a pound of mussels, a pound of shrimp, a dozen clams, two ears of corn, baby red potatoes, and Phillips Seafood Seasoning. It comes complete with a pot to cook it in, claw crackers and, of course, lobster bibs. This cost is just $199 (includes shipping).
The Phillips Famous Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes package includes six 4-oz. crab cakes made with jumbo lump crab meat and a can of Phillips Seafood Seasoning. The cost is only $85 (includes shipping).
To ensure freshness, Phillips ships all fresh seafood items overnight. Every item is expertly packed and shipped in a sturdy cooler, allowing them to arrive in perfect condition. Orders must be received two business days prior to delivery.
Available at www.phillipsseafood.com/store, or by calling 866-531-2722. $85.00-$199.00 (includes shipping).

Keepin’ It Cool, Sweet, and Original
On eCreamery.com, create your own unique flavor of gourmet ice cream by selecting the cream base consistency (sorbetto, gelato, or premium ice cream), flavor combination (from almond to cake mix to six varieties of chocolate), and mix-in (from basil to cookie dough to walnut brownies). Personalize your unique flavor creation by selecting packaging, and then name your custom creation! Half-gallon orders are shipped right to your doorstep.
eCreamery also offers special occasion sampler packs, including Birthday, Get Well, New Baby, Study Aid, and even a Tonsilectomy Survival Kit.
Available online, at www.ecreamery.com.

All the Treat, None of the Allergy
Thinking about stocking stuffers, gifts for teachers/babysitters, or hostess gifts for this holiday season? Sweet holiday treats are always a well-received gift. Try peppermint bark, festive truffles, and delicious holiday chocolates from Vermont Nut Free Chocolates’ vast selection of allergy-safe treats. Vermont Nut Free offers a fun way for every child and family to enjoy holiday candy. Safe from cross-contamination concerns that often arise with similar, mass-produced products, people with nut allergies can feel comforted by its nut-free guarantee.
Established in 1998, Vermont Nut Free Chocolates specializes in handmade gourmet treats that are safe for individuals with peanut and tree nut allergies. Its product line includes fudge, truffles, caramels, chocolate bars, granola bars and novelty items. All products are made in small batches with the finest nut-free ingredients available, and can be shipped anywhere in the world.
Also featured is the protein snack, MetaBall. Sold in a three-pack, it has 15 grams of protein and a 3:1 carbohydrate to protein ratio, offering energy going into a workout as well as aiding in lean muscle development as a post-workout nutrition alternative. Available in flavors such as Bashin’ Berry, Chompin’ Chocolate, Mocho Loco, and Raisin The Roof, it’s great for a mid-day boost and convenient for busy families. For more about MetaBall, visit www.metaballnutrition.com.
Available online, including MetaBall, at www.vermontnutfree.com. $1.20-$65.95.

When It’s a Keeper

Give Some Scrappy Fun
Software maker Serif presents Digital Scrapbook Artist 2, the perfect gift for busy parents and families who love scrapbooking or who want to get started preserving special memories. It’s fun and does not require the kind of time or money involved in traditional scrapbooking, and it foes not fill up valuable closet space with that growing collection of craft materials.
Unlike other scrapbook programs on the market, Digital Scrapbook Artist 2 allows users to edit every object on a scrapbook page and perfect their designs to look exactly as they would in a traditional scrapbook. Everything from backgrounds, buttons, ribbons, and pieces of fabric look entirely realistic, and the program is easy to use.
Available online, at www.serif.com/scrapbook. $49.99.

Over the Internet and Through the Mail
For families looking to connect with grandparents on Facebook, PostEgram now makes it easier than ever.
PostEgram works with your Facebook account to share news and photos in a grandma/grandpa-friendly print form. Users can include the profiles of multiple family members, and PostEgram will print an impressive full-color newsletter and mail it directly to Nana's doorstep. No more fumbling with email attachments and online sites for her, and no more one-hour photo processing for you. Consider PostEgram the bridge that connects tech-savvy and tech-shy relatives.
Available online, at www.postegram.com. Subscriptions start at $4.99 a month. A three-month subscription is less than $20.00.

Picture Perfect All the Time
The sleek and stylish Mosaic Frame and a package of MOO MiniCards to display in the frame is a fun gift for parents or for the whole family. Made of sturdy acrylic, a transparent sheet sits on top of the frame, protecting the 20 MiniCards it holds and keeping them in place. Indents on the back of the frame allow the frame to hang easily on the wall or stand propped-up on a shelf. MiniCards are about half the size of a standard business card and, through MOO’s website, consumers can print a different picture from their own digital collection on every card in the pack.
With a MOO Mosaic Frame and a package of MOO MiniCards, your gift recipient can change the arrangement by the season, or just on a whim.
Available online, at MOO.com. MOO Mosaic Frame, $39.99; pack of 100 MiniCards, $19.99.

Worth a 1000 Words…and More
Imagine capturing life-changing special moments in a photo—weddings, anniversaries, birth announcements, birthdays, family reunions, and photos with Santa—and turning it into a beautiful piece of art that will last a lifetime. PlaqueWorks makes extraordinary moments come to life with the latest in technology so that you can design your very own PhotoPlaque as well as include a personal inscription to make it even more special.
The process is simple: Log onto the PlaqueWorks website, choose your photo and your PhotoPlaque design, and add in your personal inscription. Violà! Your personal PhotoPlaque is complete. PlaqueWorks also offers a free Plaque Concierge service to help you create and customize your PhotoPlaque.
Available online, at www.PlaqueWorks.com. $49.00-$99.00.

Come, Have Some Fun

Go to the Colorful Mats
For many people, easing stress means hitting the yoga mat! Now there is a new mat out there that is aimed at helping to make that relaxing time more personal. Dream Yoga Mats ensures your yoga, Pilates, or exercise session will be a colorful experience. And, to make matters better, the mats are environmentally friendly.
Beginner to die-hard yoga and fitness fans are always looking for a fun way to spend their exercise time. The beautiful designs on each mat are also functional because they provide a focus for centering and balance.
Available online, at www.dreamyogamats.com.

Happy Anniversary, Raggedy Ann!
Got a grown-up doll lover on your list? To mark her 95th anniversary, Applause by Russ has created the vintage-inspired Raggedy Ann Anniversary Doll, which harkens back to illustrations from the earliest Raggedy Ann books by Johnny Gruelle, who created the character for his daughter, Marcella, in 1915.
The Raggedy Ann Anniversary Doll most closely resembles Gruelle’s character from Raggedy Ann in the Deep, Deep Woods (1930), with burnt-red hair color, hair tied in a bow, white-gloved hands, an outline around the eyes, and a more muted color palette in general. But, of course, she still features the beloved characteristics she’s famous for—button eyes, yarn hair, triangle nose, and rosy cheeks—and, most importantly, the signature embroidered “I Love You” heart.
The Anniversary Doll package features illustrations from Raggedy Ann in the Deep, Deep Woods and includes a commemorative certificate in each box.
Available online, at www.VermontCountryStore.com and www.Amazon.com.

Leave ‘Em Speechless
Got a real talker on your gift list? The Blabber Meter is a desk clock that tallies the time (and money) spent in useless conversations, long meetings, marital sermons, and never-ending phone
calls. It features a large, illuminated start button and 15-minute blabber reminders. The Blabber Meter can even be adjusted depending on the number of people blabbering, from one to 99.
It’s easy to use and doubles as a clock when not in Blabber mode. The Blabber Meter uses two AAA batteries, which are included.
Available online, at www.blabbermeter.com. $24.99.

This Gift’s a Slam Dunk
The SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop is the first mini-hoop with the look, function, and durability of a professional-grade basket. The SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop includes a professional-grade, polycarbonate, shatterproof backboard and a spring-action breakaway steel rim for slam dunks. It’s easy to assemble and fully foam-padded to prevent damage to doors or walls.
Available at major retailers and online, at sklz.com. $39.99.

Hit All the Right Notes

Feel Good about These Headphones
The new CS40s Headphones, by iFrogz, are built for comfort. The “CS” stands for “comfort series,” and they are the stylish new addition to the iFrogz EarPollution headphone line. These lightweight, on-ear headphones feature ultra-cushioned ear cups for long wear and are a great alternative to earbuds and other headphones that fit too tightly (or too loosely).
The CS40s currently are available in eight color combinations, and each pair has an adjustable headband that folds into itself for portability.
Available online, at ifrogz.com/product/EP-CS40. $39.99.

Now Hear These
Listen up, gift-givers! JVC has introduced two new additions to its popular line of headphones.
The JVC HA-EBX5 sports clip headphones come equipped with a soft, rubber ear hook that fits around the outer ear to hold the earpieces comfortably in place for a secure fit, making them ideal for exercise and fitness activities. They come in nine colors, to match the iPod nano 5G.
The JVC HA-FX22 inner ear headphones feature a translucent, or “clear color” design for a fresh, new look. Superior sound isolation from background noise is achieved with the inner ear design. They also come in nine colors, to match the iPod nano 5G.
To ensure high-quality sound reproduction, both models feature friction noise reduction cords of 3.94 feet (1.2 meters) with a slim, gold-plated iPhone-compatible plug. The earpieces come in three sizes to ensure a customized fit to provide hours of comfort for any wearer.
Available at major retail outlets and online, at store.jvc.com. $19.95 and $14.95, respectively.

Play Guitar in Private…Anywhere
What guitar player doesn't get excited about new gear? The VOX amPlug miniature headphone guitar amplifiers allow electric guitarists to play in private, anytime, anywhere—and the newest model, the VOX Joe Satriani Signature amPlug, also delivers the sound of the legendary guitar virtuoso at the flick of a switch. The battery-powered Joe Satriani Signature amPlug is a sonic stocking stuffer that's perfect for beginners and veteran guitarists alike.
Just plug it into the output jack of a guitar, connect your headphones, and you'll get distinctive, rich sound, thanks to the unit's fine-tuned amp modeling technology. It even plugs into your portable music player, so you can jam along with favorite tunes without waking the neighbors!
Ideal for late-night practice, warming up before a gig, in the dorm, or on vacation, there are six other amPlug models, including the amPlug Bass, for any style of music.
Available at music retailers including area Music and Arts stores, Bill’s Music in Catonsville, and at Best Buy. $75.00.

A Strumming Beauty
Lâg acoustic guitars have been prized by musicians in Europe for more than 25 years. Designed in France, Lâg guitars are now available in the U.S. this holiday season.
Combining clear, open sound with an elegant appearance, Lâg guitars offer exceptional value. Designed by founder and master luthier Michel Lâg-Chavarria, they're finely detailed with elegant bindings, rosettes, inlays, and trim, and are available in a variety of rich gloss or satin finishes.
Lâg guitar styles include acoustic, acoustic/electric, 12-string, and classical (nylon-string). The guitars are made using premium-quality craftsmanship and materials, including rosewood, spruce, cedar, and mahogany.
Find Lâg guitars online, at usa.lagguitars.com. $199.00-$725.00.

Votes Are in for These Headphones
Whether they’re a fan of David Archuleta, Kelly Clarkson, or they’re looking to be the next big star, tweens and teens can now listen to their favorite American Idol winners in style on the American Idol Performance Series Headphones, fashionable stereo bass-enhanced headphones with a star-powered design.
The American Idol Performance Series Headphones have a creative and colorful look for every rising star and fashionable fan. Featuring bass-boosting technology and high-fidelity playback, the Performance Series Headphones are designed for quality sound. Engineered for maximum comfort, the soft-around-ear headphones are ideal for long listening sessions.
Available online, at www.Amazon.com. $29.99.

No Place Like Home

Gifts to Make a Good Home Great
Check out these beautifully designed, thoughtfully engineered household innovations from Bon Home.
New to Bon Home’s collection is the Culinary Heat Lamp, the first heat lamp designed for everyday use in the home. This appliance features a ceramic heating element that eliminates bulb replacement and provides focused infrared heat for sealing in moisture and flavor. It is ideal for keeping pizzas, grilled items, plated meals, and appetizers at the perfect serving temperature.
The Culinary Heat Lamp features an adjustable arm to accommodate a wide variety of food items with focused heat, and it is collapsible for easy storage. Also, multiple lamps can be linked together for use during parties or on large buffets.
Then, with the Heat & Dry Dish Rack, you can dry dishes in approximately 10 minutes with the touch of a button. The first of its kind, it is much faster and more sanitary than towel-drying dishes. The heated airflow dries dishes quickly and effortlessly with whisper quiet precision.
Available online, at www.bonhome.com. $99.95 each.

Give that Foodie a Breath of Fresh Air
If you’re gift list includes something for your favorite foodie, surprise that person with a Fresh Wave Soy Kitchen Candle, an affordable, eco-friendly product that eliminates cringe-worthy cooking smells.
Utilizing extracts of lime, pine needle, aniseed, clove, and cedar wood, the Fresh Wave Soy Kitchen Candle is biodegradable and nontoxic. When lighted, its formula is released into the air and the stinky odor molecules are absorbed and then broken down by the plant extracts—completely eliminating the smell (rather than just masking it with a chemical or fragrance).
Housed in a glass votive, the Fresh Wave Soy Kitchen Candle burns down evenly for approximately 50 hours.
Available at local retailers: A 1 Antiques & Gifts, Belle Hardware, Gundys, Mt. Washington Cigar Co., and Waverly Ace Hardware in Baltimore; and at Bed Bath & Beyond, Equine Impressions, and Stebbins Anderson in Towson. Also online, at www.fresh-wave.com. $18.00.

A Green Gift for Year-Round Savings
A quick-start energy efficiency kit from Eco Hatchery includes essential tools for lowering household utility bills and building a sustainable future. The Energy Efficiency Kit includes a combination of easy energy-saving products, educational instructions, and online tools for tracking savings and creating a personal road map. All activities can be completed in a single weekend, saving the average household $220 per year.
The Energy Efficiency Kit includes a personalized home energy road map, an appliance energy monitor, a premium energy-saving light bulb, a home lighting renovation tool, a refrigerator coil brush, a refrigerator/freezer thermometer, weatherization sealer, an outlet and light switch, sealers, water pipe insulation sizing samples, and access to online tracking of financial and environmental savings.
The Kit can be ordered online and sent directly to friends, family, and associates with a holiday gift greeting.
Available online, at www.ecohatchery.com, or by calling 414-332-8347. $50.00-$97.50.

Make a Stand for Comfort!
Know a hard-working someone who spends a lot of time on his or her feet? Consider getting that person a GelPro Mat.
Everyone knows how standing for any length of time on hard flooring can result in lower back pain, heel pain, and overall fatigue—whether doing laundry, or simply preparing meals in the kitchen. GelPro Mats make the time spent standing more comfortable.
All GelPro Mats are made in the U.S., and are available in nine styles, in a rich, inspired palette of designer colors that reflect today's decorating trends. From traditional to ultra-modern, there is a style for everyone's taste.
Also, if you can’t make up your mind about which style to choose, consider sending a GelPro e-Gift Card, which can be printed or emailed directly to the recipient.
Available at Bed, Bath, and Beyond and many flooring retailers, and online, at www.gelpro.com. Prices vary.

Taking Talk to the Next Level
The MM04 Bluetooth Stereo Handset, designed by Michael Young and acoustically engineered by sound specialist NXT, is a high-performance Bluetooth stereo speaker system, professional conference call unit, and cell phone handset with noise reduction technology. The unit utilizes a Bluetooth 2.1 chip to connect with wireless computers and mobile phones within a range of 30 feet, allowing users to conduct both Internet and cell phone calls via the speakers in conference call mode or via the handset for private calls. The MM04 can be paired with two mobile devices at the same time, and also features auto pick-up/hang-up and auto connect/disconnect.
With its design incorporating a mobile handset/speaker unit, weighted charging base, and protective phone mat, the MM04 Bluetooth Stereo Handset comes in taupe/copper or black/silver and is finished with a luxurious, soft-touch “rubberized” paint and a unique sanded aluminum face.
Available online, at www.NativeUnion.com and www.Amazon.com. $199.00.

World Travel Is in the Air
Give your favorite globetrotter a collection of scents from faraway lands. Robindira Unsworth’s line of luxurious handcrafted soy candles, Bougie Aromatique, are blended with natural essential oils, which promise to whisk you away to the exotic locales of Capri, Ibiza, and Marrakech without ever leaving home. Each candle averages 40 to 50 hours of burn time.
Capri’s notes of ylang ylang and hyacinth offer a soothing blend that summons up visions of the clear waters and rocky cliffs of the Mediterranean Coast. Ibiza’s clean fragrance, with hints of lily, jasmine, and neroli, brings to mind the relaxing breezes and welcoming nature of the Spanish island. Marrakech evokes the fresh excitement and enticing energy of the Moroccan city, with scents of ginger, pomegranate, and currant.
Available online, at www.robindira.com. $45.00.

Oh, How Clever Is That

Design a Shield for Favorite Gadgets
ZAGGskins, from the maker of the InvisibleSHIELD, are the new way to protect and personalize your gadgets. Submit a picture or custom design and get your friends and family a creative gift that shows off their personality, and also serves as protection for their favorite gadgets such as iPods, iPads, iPhones, and laptops.
Available at invisibleSHIELD at Columbia Mall, Digital Wireless in Bel Air, and at Best Buy, and online, at www.zagg.com.

Keeping It Cool
Introducing the Handy Cooler, the world’s only hand-held evaporative cooling system that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to face any sunshine. There are always those $5 personal fans, but they hardly satisfy your cooling needs.
The Handy Cooler is the only evaporative cooling fan that is hand-held. This means you can take it literally anywhere you need to go—it’s perfect for those warm afternoons. One of the best benefits is that the air blowing on you can be humidified up to 60 percent on a dry day.
Available online, at www.myhandycooler.com. $49.95.

What’s up, “Dock”?
Check out the newest iPhone /iPhone 4 accessories from Dexim—portable power and docking solutions with colorful cases that are the perfect holiday gifts or stocking stuffers this year.
Products include:
Supercharged Leather Power Case. Doubling as a protective leather case and a portable power solution, this case extends talk time up to eight hours, video/game time up to 15 hours, or audio playing time up to 60 hours. And it features a built-in, on-off power switch.
P-Flip Foldable Power Dock 3 in 1 Bundle. Capable of extending talk time up to eight hours, video time up to 15 hours, or audio playing time up to 80 hours, users can flip the compact dock horizontally or vertically for hands-free video viewing, or position it to fold for easy storage. The bundle includes a Dexim Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) case to fit the iPhone 4, an anti-glare screen protector, a squeegee-card, and cleaning cloth.
AV Dock Station with Remote Control. Users can wirelessly display photographs on the big screen, play downloaded movies in 720 I Resolution via component AV cable, or blast their favorite song with the home speakers from their iPod/iPhone. While other solutions exist, the DRA022 is one of the most affordable solutions on the market.
Available online, at www.Dexim.net. $69.90-$79.90.

Practically Perfect

B.Y.O. Casserole, in Style
The vonny Casserole Carrier is the perfect way to tote your favorite dish to family parties, tailgate gatherings, and friends’ houses. Completely insulated to maintain food’s temperature whether hot or cold, the vonny Casserole Carrier is made with a laminated printed canvas exterior for easy maintenance and a brightly colored interior designed to fit a standard 9-inch-x-13-inch dish. It also features an exterior pocket large enough to hold serving utensils, an interior pocket for hot/cold packs, and a convenient Velcro handle.
The casserole carrier comes in four colorful, graphic prints, including Orange Daiquiri (multicolor stripe), Black & White Bohemian (black and white floral), and Calliope (green, yellow, and brown circles); and Carnival (retro red and white sunbursts).
Also, the vonny Full-of-Pockets Farmer's Market Tote is the perfect partner to the Casserole Carrier if you need to tote wine or other essentials to the party.
Available online, at www.vonny.com. $45.00 and $76.00, respectively.

Get Stoked for Giving
Famous for its traditional windproof lighter, Zippo has expanded to include new products that make for practical, handy, and welcome gifts.
Hand Warmer. This is perfect for parents who want to support their kids from the sidelines on game day! It uses lighter fluid to produce heat, but doesn’t produce a flame while it burns the lighter fluid. Sleek and stylish, it’s just smaller than a deck of cards. With 12-hour burn time, this Hand Warmer is reusable.
Candle Lighter. Available in seven styles, fitting any room or occasion, it is equipped with a fuel-level indicator and adjustable flame dial. The patented child-resistant safety button makes it more family-friendly than other candle lighters.
Outdoor Utility Lighter. With a rubber grip for comfort, this lighter employs an advanced ignition system. Its wind-resistant dual flame combines with rugged metal construction to withstand all weather conditions. Ideal for barbecues or camping trips.
Available online, at www.zippo.com. $14.95-$19.95.

Talk about Keeping the Connection!
Looking for holiday gifts for the outdoor enthusiasts on your gift list? Consider the latest Motorola Talkabout MR350R Radios, with up to a 35-mile range—perfect to take along where cell phones don’t operate. They include the NOAA weather channels, flashlight, and even a mini-USB charging port. The radios are ideal for ski trips for safety on the slopes as well as for camping, hiking, and cruising.
Best of all, they now come in a variety of cool colors and designs with a free faceplate offer through December 2010. Designs include Silver, Yellow, Blaze Orange, Pink, Green, Digital Camouflage Silver, Digital Camouflage Pink, Turkish Walnut Wood, and American Pride.
Available at mass merchants and sport and outdoor retailers such as Bass Pro Shops, Best Buy, The Home Depot, RadioShack, REI, and online, at www.Amazon.com. $79.99 per pair.

Read All about It

Beer Belly Blues
It’s a fact that, as men age, they do experience fatigue, loss of lean muscle mass, decline in strength, increased body fat, aching joints, and cardiovascular problems. The truth is, depressingly so, that the aging process actually starts to take place in men in their 30s and, although it may be years before the damage is visible, it is nonetheless happening.
Research confirms that these physical and emotional changes are due in large part to a drastic decline in male hormone levels—a phenomenon known as andropause. Not only do men lose approximately 10 percent of their testosterone levels each decade after age 30, but, by the time they hit 60, they typically produce 60 percent less testosterone than they did at age 20. Wow, and women thought menopause was bad!
In Beer Belly Blues, by Brad King (Abundant Health Systems, Inc., 2010), the author cleverly blends humorous tales with concise layman’s prose to explain the complex underlying cause of age-related changes in men and offers life-changing information on how to safely recapture the energy, and, yes, even the body, of their youth.
Available online, at www.beerbellyblues.com and www.Amazon.com. $17.95.

Drive I-95: Exit by Exit Info, Maps, History, and Trivia
Heading down I-95 and you want to know where to get your caffeine fix along the way? Drive I-95: Exit by Exit Info, Maps, History, and Trivia, by Sandra Phillips and Stan Posner, lists coffee shops at exits, and a whole lot more.
The 5th edition of Drive I-95: Exit by Exit Info, Maps, History, and Trivia goes from the top of New Hampshire to all the way down to Miami. Chow down on a chompable “Thanksgiving dinner on a bun” in Delaware, or watch rats play basketball in Richmond, Va. You will learn that it was Dr. Samuel Preston, and not Paul Revere, who completed the famous midnight ride. You can eat lunch with an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center, or sleep overnight in a caboose in South Carolina. Oh, the fun you can have along I-95.
This edition is also available in downloadable PDF form, to be used on a computer, laptop, or iPad.
Available online, at www.drivei95.com, or by calling 877-GUIDE95 (877-484-3395).

Good, Better, Best Wines: A No-Nonsense Guide to Popular Wines
Carolyn Evans Hammond ranks wines by variety and price in her book Good, Better, Best Wines: A No-Nonsense Guide to Popular Wines (Alpha Books, 2010). Because this is the first book to rank the best-selling wines in North America—names such as Beringer, Kendall-Jackson, and Woodbridge—you can guarantee they'll be stocked at your local store. The author provides tasting notes as well as bottle images to help readers find the wines on the shelves. Its accessible style and useful content—including a chapter on Good Deals at Super-Low Prices—cut the intimidation factor often associated with wine.
Available at retail outlets and online, at www.Amazon.com. $12.95.

New Resume New Career: Get the Job You Want with the Skills and Experience You Already Have
Author and career expert Catherine Jewell offers readers advice on how to transform their chronological resumes in her book, New Resume New Career: Get the Job You Want with the Skills and Experience You Already Have (Alpha Books, 2010). Jewell employs a billboard technique that best positions skills and experiences for the jobs of choice.
Included in the book are 50 profiles of real-life job seekers looking to either find a similar career in a different industry or a new career within the same industry. The profiles and advice teach readers how to transform resumes associated with jobs that are on the decline into new resumes that position candidates for jobs in growth areas.
Available online, at www.Amazon.com. $16.95.

Nutrition at Your Fingertips
An informative and easy-to-read reference guide, Nutrition at Your Fingertips, by Elisa Zied (Alpha, 2010), offers straight answers to the most basic nutrition questions. A nutritionist, Zied provides all the tools people need to create healthier lifestyles. With the most up-to-date, accurate, and reliable nutritional information, it teaches how to make good nutrition and healthful lifestyle habits a part of life in a way that suits personal needs and goals.
Available at retail outlets and online, at nutritionatyourfingertips.com and www.Amazon.com. $18.95.

Puzzle Baron’s Logic Puzzles
The founder and editor of the Puzzle Baron network of websites (PuzzleBaron.com), Stephen P. Ryder, created Puzzle Baron’s Logic Puzzles (Alpha Books, 2010) with the intent to keep anyone occupied for hours. Puzzle Baron's Logic Puzzles contains 200 grid-based puzzles.
The multiple “logic grid” puzzles are solvable through logical deduction alone, and each puzzle includes a completion rate, an average solve time taken from thousands of previously solved online games, and a “best time” that recognizes the current online record-holder for that puzzle on Logic-Puzzles.org. Numbered and categorized according to its online completion rate, readers can start at the easy puzzles and work their way up to the tough ones. Best of all, if the puzzle-solver gets stumped, there is an online solution section at the website.
Puzzle Baron’s Logic Puzzles is a stocking stuffer that will keep readers occupied, challenged and entertained.
Available online, at Logic-Puzzles.org and www.Amazon.com. $14.95.

The Wealthy Freelancer: 12 Secrets to a Great Income and an Enviable Lifestyle
Filled with practical strategies, success stories, insider tips, and advice from the pros, The Wealthy Freelancer: 12 Secrets to a Great Income and an Enviable Lifestyle, by Steve Slaunwhite, Ed Gandia, and Pete Savage (Alpha Books, 2010), has the immediate credibility of having been written by three successful freelance professionals who are, collectively, very well known to their target audience through their books, seminars, columns, podcasts, newsletters, and speaking engagements. The Wealthy Freelancer explains in detail how to build a high income in virtually any freelance occupation. More importantly, the book enables freelancers to create a flexible, balanced, and fulfilling lifestyle.
Available online, at thewealthyfreelancer.com and www.Amazon.com. $16.95.

The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2011
At 143 years old, The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2011 (World Almanac Books, 2010) is a classic—filled with the most fascinating facts from the past year, including lists such as the popular Time Capsule, Offbeat News Stories, and Top News Stories of the Year. New this year is a complete guide to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
While The World Almanac and Book of Facts is a wonderful gift for the trivia buff in your life, The World Almanac for Kids is perfect for the tween with an insatiable curiosity. This ultimate reference book includes new features: “Energy” explores everything about how we power our world, “Volunteering” helps children understand how they can make a difference in their own communities, and “On the Job” shares details about the coolest new career opportunities such as fashion designers, graphic designers, and storm chasers.
Available in retail outlets and online, at www.worldalmanac.com and www.Amazon.com. The World Almanac and Book of Facts, $12.99; World Almanac for Kids 2011, for ages 9-14, $13.99.

Your Life in Comics: 100 Things for Guys to Write and Draw
What’s more fun for tween guys than reading comics? Making their own! Your Life in Comics: 100 Things for Guys to Write and Draw, by Bill Zimmerman (Free Spirit Publishing, 2010), lets them do just that. Rather than provide the plot, this interactive book allows readers to decide what happens by using words and drawings of their own invention.
Building on the Free Spirit favorite 100 Things Guys Need to Know, this do-it-yourself comic book can be a source of fun that also gets boys thinking about important topics in their lives, including family, friends, school, health, and the future. The book can be used independently or for reading, writing, or behavioral support, whether in school, youth groups, or as part of a home library.
Available at Barnes and Noble and online, at www.FreeSpirit.com and www.Amazon.com. Ages 9 to 13. $9.99.

What to Wear, What to Wear

Add Some Zip to Friendships
Here’s an inspiring idea for tween girls. Friendships are very important, and showing those friends how much you appreciate and care for them is as equally important. Now, there’s a great way to do that with Friendzip Bracelets.
Available in a variety of styles and designs, Friendzip Bracelets also include special messages for the receiver of this great gift! These bracelets are meant to serve as reminder to those wearing it that there is someone there for them.
Available online, at www.friendzipbracelet.com. $5.95.

Find Original, Custom Jewelry
Find a selection of more than 1,000 original jewelry designs from leading international artists, available in an unparalleled palette of options. Gemvara allows you to easily customize each piece online by combining varieties of brilliant gemstones with a range of precious metals—perfectly fitting your style and price points.
All Gemvara jewelry is artfully constructed by master craftspeople in the United States. Choose among initial pendants, sterling silver chat charms for teens, personalized key pendants, and much more.
Available online, at www.gemvara.com. Prices vary.

Give Your Loved One a Freehand
Here’s something practical for tech-obsessed men and women. Freehands gloves are designed to help people keep in touch by making it easy to use hand-held devices without removing your gloves in cold weather. A quick flick of the caps exposes the user’s thumb and index fingers to text, email, and game. With styles for men and women, Freehands come in multiple colors and styles for fashion, sport, and tech function.
New styles for 2010 include: bright color-block knits in pink, purple, blue, and black; cashmere knits; and eco-friendly fleece made from recycled plastic bottles in purple, blue, and black.
One style even features a liner with conductive tips on all five digits for iPad addicts.
Available online, at www.freehands.com. $16.00-$80.00.

Stylish Activewear is a Plus
Finally, yoga and fitness wear for curvy women that’s flattering and comfortable while getting into shape. No more oversize sweatshirts, t-shirts, and baggy sweatpants necessary! Taffy is the latest line of clothing from Lolly38, maker of fun and comfy underwear—and it's yoga and active wear designed specifically for plus-size women. Recognizing the strong emotional connection between looking good, feeling comfortable, and actually being more motivated to be active and healthy, Taffy activewear highlights, hides, and flatters all of the right parts! The stylish line includes sweats, flattering tops, and versatile yoga pants.
Available online, at www.lolly38.com/taffy. Prices vary.

Shopping Websites and Catalogs

Celebrate in the Spirit of Diversity
The interfaith and multicultural holiday greeting company, MixedBlessing, has been creating cards for almost 20 years that promote diversity, tolerance, offering interfaith families a choice of greeting cards that acknowledges them with designs and messages that are lighthearted and respectful. It offers more than 50 designs for the holidays.
Also, for this holiday season, the company has introduced a family holiday book, Blintzes For Blitzen, by Elise and Philip Okrend, creators of MixedBlessing. It is the story of one of Santa's reindeer who discovers Hanukah one Christmas Eve from an unexpected meeting with a Jewish family. The book shares and celebrates the traditions of Christmas and Hanukah in a lighthearted and touching way.
Available online, at www.mixedblessing.com. Blintzes For Blitzen, $10.50.

Custom T-Shirts, Gifts, Art, and More!
A leading platform for quality custom products, Zazzle.com is quite literally a one-stop shop holiday gift center that has something for everyone on your list—and most under $20! Zazzle's proprietary technology enables individuals, professional artists, and major brands, including Disney and Hallmark, to create and offer unique products for customers worldwide. Launched in 2005, it's rapidly expanding product base covers every topic imaginable and includes t-shirts, business cards, and invitations, in addition to a variety of custom gifts.
Find gifts for him, for her, for kids and babies, and for foodies. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to customize a gift for someone: (1) Select a product, (2) Make your customizations, and (3) Order. And, when ordered, each product is made on-demand, typically within 24 hours.

Gifts to Get Organized
San Francisco-based Kangaroom Storage was started less than four years ago and has since become a leader in the design and production of unique organization and storage accessories for the home, office, technology, and travel. From foodies to teens and everyone in between, Kangaroom offers the season’s best at affordable prices, and designed to put the fun back into gift-giving.
Keepsake Keeper. File and sort your most prized memories in this accordion-style organizer with open access and tabs. Also doubles as a greeting card file box. $29.99.
Photo Storage Tray. This stackable six-compartment photo storage tray organizes and holds up to 400 4-inch-x-6-inch prints. Each compartment lid has a built-in frame to display your favorite image or to identify what's inside. $40.00.
Media Wally. Use any wall or over-the-door space to organize all of your electrical devices and their accessories. You’ll be able to find the charging cord to your camera and the instruction manual for your Kindle in a flash! $34.99.
These gifts—and Kangaroom Storage’s entire product line—are available online, at www.kangaroomstorage.com.

It’s Easy to Order Greeting Cards
A great way to share a seasonal hello is with a personalized photo card—of a new baby, all the kids, or the entire family. Find a festive selection of cards to create and order at InvitationBox.com.
Simply upload a digital photo, pick a style of card, and then customize it with your personal message or greeting. Also choose from eco-friendly options printed on recycled paper using non-toxic ink from the InvitationBox Green collection. Non-photo cards are available to customize and order as well.

Truly in the Spirit of Sharing
Spread the holiday cheer with the products from Quirky. A "social product development" company, Quirky takes products from sketch to store with the help and creativity of a passionate online community. Each one of these unique products has been developed—from the product's design all the way to name, logo, and tagline—by hundreds of influencers. Cooler still, Quirky shares revenue from each product with the people who made it happen. So, join in the spirit of sharing by gifting Quirky products this season!
- Protect and prop up newly gifted Apple iPads with the Quirky Cloak, a sleek, sturdy case that doubles as a stand. Made of silicone, it can be positioned to sit on a flat surface in portrait, landscape, and typing stand positions. Available in black, blue, green, and pink. $54.99.
- Do your loved ones seek a Zen office? Give them the power to minimize clutter and expand the functionality of their desktops with the Quirky Space Bar. This elegantly designed desk gem holds a keyboard below and miscellany above, and provides six additional USB ports. $48.00.
- DIYers will be fixin' for a project with the Quirky Switch. With 18 attachments, this ultimate modular utility device allows them to mix and match their most frequently used tools and group them into themes such as travel or outdoors. $79.00.
- All the rage with families and roommates, Quirky Bobble Brush makes everyone's morning rush easier and neater. This fun, colorful toothbrush holder keeps toothbrushes upright, bobbing, and grime-free. Bobble Brushes are available in pink, blue, and grey. $12.99.
Find these original gifts and many more online, at www.quirky.com.

Giving…and Giving

Gifts of Love and Hope
How about something for the charitable soul or the person who has everything? ChildFund International is the nonprofit that supports impoverished children, giving them the capacity to improve their lives and the opportunity to become young adults, parents, and leaders who bring lasting and positive change in their communities. Their Gifts of Love & Hope catalog allows holiday shoppers to purchase practical items such as water buffalo, mosquito nets, water purification systems, etc., to benefit children, their families, and their communities. These gifts can be offered in the name of a particular recipient and go to fill particular basic, pressing needs of children around the world. The organization supports approximately 15.2 million children and family members in 31 countries worldwide.
Available online, at www.childfund.org. $5.00-$2,250.00.

Healthy Kids Kits for Kids in Haiti
Basic sanitation, especially frequent hand-washing, is essential for the prevention of disease. This is particularly important in Haiti, where hundreds of thousands of people still live in camps with rudimentary sanitation facilities. IMA World Health is helping with its Healthy Kids Kit. Developed in cooperation with the Haitian Ministry of Health, each Kit contains a bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, skin lotion, and washcloth.
IMA is distributing Healthy Kids Kits through more than 500 locations in Haiti, including schools and health clinics. Individuals and groups can donate a Healthy Kids Kit for only $15 online, at www.imaworldhealth.org/archive/healthy-kids-kits.html.
IMA World Health has additional giving programs to help the people of Haiti, at www.imaworldhealth.org.

Support Humanitarian Medical Care
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international medical humanitarian organization created by doctors and journalists in France in 1971. Today, MSF provides aid in more than 60 countries to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition and exclusion from health care or natural disasters. In 1999, MSF was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
For information on how you can support Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières, Visit www.doctorswithoutborders.org.

Why Not Give a Goat?
Since the World Vision Gift Catalog was first introduced in 1996, new gifts have been introduced and its popularity as a gift-giving alternative has grown substantially, with more than 100,000 purchases made last year.
Goats were the most popular item in 2009—more than 50,000 goats were given to families in need thanks to the generous contributions of gift catalog donors. After purchasing a Gift Catalog item, the person whose name the gift was purchased in receives a special card describing the gift and the impact it will have.
Possible catalog items include: new clothes and shoes for U.S. children and families ($25 provides $150 worth of necessities); five ducks that produce eggs to feed a family year round ($30); one goat that can supply protein and surplus milk to sell ($75); five fruit trees that provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C and antioxidants ($30); and one sheep to supply warm wool for clothes and blankets ($105).
Serving the poor, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender, World Vision is dedicated to helping children and their communities. For more information, visit www.worldvision.org. To order World Vision gifts, visit the website, www.worldvisiongifts.org. To order by phone or to request a print catalog, call 888-511-6511.

Be a Smart Shopper

A Day to Ship Your Gifts for Free
Free Shipping Day is a one-day shopping event when participating online merchants offer free shipping with delivery by Dec. 24. Among the merchants involved in this year’s Free Shipping Day are Dell, Nine West, Macy's, Overstock.com, Neiman Marcus, Disney Store, Crate & Barrel, DSW, and Sierra Trading Post.
The third annual Free Shipping Day is being held this year on Friday, Dec. 17. For more information, visit the website www.freeshippingday.com.

Deliver Gifts with Less than Four Clicks
Send great gifts from an array of retailers instantly, easily, and personally via text message with Giiv.com. Send your gift instantly, even if you cannot be with that person to celebrate—even if it is the day of the holiday.
Here’s how it works: Visit the Giiv.com website, Facebook app, or iPhone app to sign up for a free account. Select the appropriate item for giving, and enter the recipient’s cell phone number along with a message. The recipient instantly receives a text message with a gift code to redeem his or her gift in-store, by phone, or online.

New Gift Card Rules for Holiday Shoppers
According to the Better Business Bureau Greater Maryland is alerting consumers, there are new regulations on gift card fees and expiration dates recently enacted by the Federal Reserve Board. The new rules went into effect for all cards sold after August 22, 2010, and serve to protect consumers from unexpected or hidden fees.
Longer Expiration Dates on Balances. Under the new regulations, the balance on a gift card cannot expire before five years after it is issued. Therefore, the balance cannot expire, but the actual plastic card can expire. Bank-issued gift cards are more likely than retail cards to have an expiration date for the physical card.
Increased Disclosure to Consumers. The new changes require consumers to be aware of all fees and limitations before purchasing a gift card. These should be printed on the packaging of the gift card and include the amount each fee will be and how frequently it will be charged.
One Year of Inactivity Fees. Companies can charge a fee, if gift cards are unused after a one-year grace period. After that grace period, one fee can be charged per month. These fees are required to be clearly disclosed to the consumer before buying the card.
The changes apply to gift certificates, single-store cards, and the Visa/MasterCard/Amex general-use gift cards, which can be used at any store.
Note: Prepaid phone cards and reloadable cards not marketed as gift cards and reward cards are exempt from these new regulations.
BBB Consumer Advice:
• Check the terms and conditions of the gift card.
• Be sure to keep track of expiration dates and contact the store if your plastic card needs to be replaced soon.
• Keep in mind that there is no maximum when it comes to monthly fees. A company could charge a very high amount after a year of inactivity as long as they disclose it. For example, Chase charges a $2.50 monthly fee after the first 12 calendar months following the gift card's purchase.
• If you are giving a gift card to someone who will make all their purchases online, be sure the gift card is redeemable for Internet shopping and not just for in-store use.
• Can the card be replaced if lost or stolen? If so, what information do you need to know, and is there a fee for replacing a lost card?
• Try to use the full balance as soon as possible to ensure you're getting your money's worth.

BBB Offers Top 10 Cyber Monday Safety Tips
Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, has officially replaced Black Friday as the most popular day to shop for the holidays. Shopping online means avoiding the crowds, but it also opens the buyer up to attacks from scammers and hackers.
Better Business Bureau Greater Maryland recommends 10 tips for staying safe when holiday shopping online.
1. Protect your computer. A computer should always have the most recent updates installed for spam filters, anti-virus, and anti-spyware software and a secure firewall.
2. Shop on trustworthy websites. Shoppers should start with BBB to check on the seller's reputation and record for customer satisfaction. Always look for the BBB seal and other widely recognized "trustmarks" on retailer websites and click on the seals to confirm that they are valid.
3. Protect your personal information. BBB recommends taking the time to read the site's privacy policy and understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. If there isn't one posted, it should be taken as a red flag that personal information may be sold to others without permission.
4. Beware of deals that sound too good to be true. Offers on websites and in unsolicited emails can often sound too good to be true, especially extremely low prices on hard-to-get items. Consumers should always go with their instincts and not be afraid to pass up a "deal" that might cost them dearly in the end.
5. Beware of phishing. Legitimate businesses do not send emails claiming problems with an order or an account to lure the "buyer" into revealing financial information. If a consumer receives such an email, BBB recommends calling the contact number on the website where the purchase was made to confirm that there really is a problem with the transaction.
6. Confirm your online purchase is secure. Shoppers should always look in the address box for the "s" in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the "lock" symbol before paying. If there are any doubts about a site, BBB recommends right-clicking anywhere on the page and select "Properties." This will let you see the real URL (website address) and the dialog box will reveal if the site is not encrypted.
7. Pay with a credit card. It's best to use a credit card, because under federal law, the shopper can dispute the charges if he or she doesn't receive the item. Shoppers also have dispute rights if there are unauthorized charges on their credit card, and many card issuers have "zero liability" policies, under which the card holder pays nothing if someone steals the credit card number and uses it. Never wire money and only shop locally on sites such as Craigslist.
8. Keep documentation of your order. After completing the online order process, there may be a final confirmation page or the shopper might receive confirmation by email. BBB recommends saving a copy of the web page and any emails for future reference and as a record of the purchase.
9. Check your credit card statements often. Don't wait for paper statements. BBB recommends consumers check their credit card statements for suspicious activity by either calling credit card companies or by checking statements online regularly.
10. Know your rights. Federal law requires that orders made by mail, phone, or online be shipped by the date promised, or, if no delivery time is stated, within 30 days. If the goods aren't shipped on time, the shopper can cancel and demand a refund. There is no general three-day cancellation right, but consumers do have the right to reject merchandise if it's defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it's the company's policies that determine if the shopper can cancel the purchase and receive a refund or credit.
For more advice on staying safe online this holiday season, visit the website greatermd.bbb.org/consumer-tips-holiday. BC