When you’re looking to reach new heights with your gift giving for mountain-climbing loved ones, sometimes it’s pretty hard to think outside of the box. Oftentimes, it seems they have everything they need to enjoy their passion, but there’s always room for thoughtful gestures and twists on old standbys. A few gift suggestions for mountain climbers include:

Climbing Ropes

The ascension of steep mountains and rock formations requires specialized equipment. One of the most basic requirements of rock climbing is robe and webbing. Usually, the ropes are made out of twisted fibers covered with a protective later. Oftentimes, they are multicolored. Webbing is a kind of flat rope associated with anchor extension and in harnesses.

Rock Climbing Apparel

Climbing shoes, such as the Mad Rock Men’s Jester Performance Velcro Shoe differ from the typical pair of footwear because they offer special soles made out of vulcanized rubber and padded comfort that helps climbers easily grip rocks. Other apparel choices to consider include belay gloves and helmets to protect a climber from falling rocks and other debris.

Gift Basket of Essentials

Creating a gift basket filled with climbing equipment is not a difficult task to complete. All you have to do is become familiar with commonly used items. For example, carabiners are metal loops with openings that serve as connectors between ropes and other climbing equipment. When two carabiners are joined together by a loop of webbing, a climber is able to attach their ropes to anchors. An example of this is seen in the Black Diamond Quicksilver Quickpack Quickdraws. Other pieces of equipment to consider include a full body harness and belay devices (a metal device that causes friction and helps control or stop the release of rope during climbs).

Protein Gift Basket

A full day of climbing can sure work up an appetite and it’s important to transport nourishment that doesn’t add unnecessary pounds. Protein snacks deliver much needed energy. From bars to liquid supplements, there are many different ways to create a gift basket for a rock climber. A few suggestions include Clif Builder’s Bar, PowerBar ProteinPlus Bar, Odwalla Super Protein Bar, and Worldwide Sport Nutrition Pure Protein Double Layer Bar.

Picture Frame

Even if they haven’t  climbed Mount Everest, mountain climbers love showing off their adventures and achievements. A decorative picture frame for their latest conquest will surely come in handy. Choose one that offers an inspirational quote to fit the personality of your loved one or opt for a Create Your Own© Personalized Frame
fashioned out of natural wood.

Know a MadMen Fan? Give them a Great Gift. photo courtesy of karlnorling

Millions of people tune in each week to watch the latest chapter in the life of Don Draper, a 1960s madman living in New York City. MadMen has turned into a cultural phenomenon. Not only is the show impacting what’s popular in fashion and beauty, but it’s making the martini the must-have drink once again. If you have a MadMen fan in your life, here are some great gifts that they’re sure to love.

Modern Martini Set

No office, living room or doctor’s office is complete without a martini set. You just never know when you’re going to need a drink. Give the MadMen fanatic in your life their very own Modern Martini Set from MartiniArt.com. It will add the feel of MadMen with a modern flare.

Sterling Cooper Journal

Make your loved one feel like they’re part of the Sterling Cooper team with a Sterling Cooper Journal. It’s blank inside so they can draw and create their own advertising ideas. Pick it up for $13.49 at CafePress.com.

Lucky Strike Billfold

Any fan will know, one of Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce’s biggest clients is Lucky Strike. And hardly a minute goes by in the show without someone lighting up. This Lucky Strike Vintage Billfold can hold about a half of a pack of cigarettes, or if you’re a non-smoker, it carries cash and credit cards too.

MadMen Fashions

Fans of the show will love pulling influences from the 1960’s wardrobes into their own closets. Take a cue from adman Bert Cooper and pick up a snazzy bow tie. They’re on sale for $55 at BlueBee.com. And for the ladies, check out Etsy shop ShebyCindy for reproduction outfits worn by Joan and Jane.

Donald Draper Art Print

Donald Draper is quite the character. And for fans of the show, this art print by Stanley Chow would likely be a welcomed addition to their home. It’s elegant and mysterious, just like Don.

MadMen DVDs

If the MadMen fan in your life doesn’t already own the collection of DVDs of the show, that would make a great gift. That way they can enter the world of Sterling Cooper in New York City whenever they want.

It is very well known that exercise and regular physical activity can help you reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. And when it comes to women (like new moms, for example), being fit can help them lose or control their weight loss.

Belly Burner. photo courtesy of Taylor Gifts

Here are some tips to consider when choosing gifts for your loved one:

Start slow!

If your loved one hasn’t done any kind of exercise in a while, they will need to start sloooow… maybe 10 minutes at a time. Stretching, walking around the block, gardening, going up and down the stairs, swimming and dancing are just a few activities they can do to start off their fitness routine. The Belly Burner is a perfect gift idea for those who want to be fit again! It’s very convenient: they can wear it under and over clothing while they are doing their daily activities and it’s even more effective if worn during the daily exercise routine.

Make it easy!

The Ab Flyer. Photo courtesy of Taylor Gifts

Going to the gym is somewhat strenuous on most people, especially on new moms who have to be home with their babies. So, why not bring the gym into their home? The Ab Flyer, for example, makes a great gift for moms who want to tone up their tummies. It is easy to store (folds) and easy to use; it works all the abdominal muscles in a Unique Reverse Arc Motion.

Make it fun!

Routines can be rather boring. However, your gift can change that! You can:
- offer them tickets to the zoo, a craft show or to a dog show so they can walk for at least a couple of hours;
- pay for dancing lessons;
- buy them roller skates or bicycle accessories like a double wall bike rack

Do NOT get discouraged!

Give them a Journal and ask them to write down their goal and reasons; then ask them to keep a record of their milestones. This should keep them motivated.

Pasta Bowl Apron. photo courtesy of She's SO Creative

Today I’d like to introduce you to She’s SO Creative - renowned creators of outrageously clever cards and more witty stuff. I met them at the San Francisco International Gift Fair, last week, and I thought their product was worth mentioning. I hope you do, too!

I particularly like their aprons which make a great birthday, Christmas or hostess gift:

“Pasta Bowl” Apron is packaged in a Parmesan Cheese Container! It literally features a bunch of pasta (Farfalle, Rigatoni, and Rotini) bowling. ($26.50)

French Chicks Apron. photo courtesy of She's SO Creative

“French Chicks” Apron is packaged in a real Egg Carton! It features beret-wearing yellow chicks hanging out, drinking wine and café lattes at Café Le Egg. ($26.50)

“Salad Dressing” Apron is packaged in a take-out Salad Box! It features a salad literally getting dressed: a carrot in pantyhose, a tomato in bra and panties, and lettuce in evening wear and heels. ($26.50)

They also have fun, matching shopping list/notepads ($6.50) and “Witty Wiper” napkins! ($5.50)

ECO-FRIENDLY: Apron packaging is all recycled. And their notepads and napkins are 100% recycled as well and printed with the greenest inks possible.

The products are available nationally via their website She’s SO Creative. Check them out!

Gifts for the Person Who Has Everything (Photo Courtesy of PHPhoto2010)

We all have them in our lives– the person that has everything. And any time a holiday, birthday or special occasion comes around finding the perfect present becomes more difficult than an expert-level Sudoku puzzle. These days, more people seem to have disposable income. That means if they want something, they buy it for themselves which creates a tough situation for gift-givers. Here are a few tips for finding the right gift for the person who already has everything.

Add to a Collection

Does the person collect antique knives or Chuck Norris memorabilia? Then simply add to their collection. Usually when a person loves something enough to collect it, they’ll appreciate any gift that enhances their collection. The only thing that could be tough about this gift is that it may get expensive depending on what they’re collecting.

Go Charitable

If the person already has everything, make a donation in their name. Better yet, let them pick the charity with a gift card from JustGive.org. You pick the amount and the design of the ecard. Then the recipient chooses which charity to give the donation to, making them an important part of the gift giving process.

Try Food

Just about everyone loves food. And even if a person already has everything, they still need food! Pick out a food gift with a story like the Mortgage Apple Cake at BakeMeaWish.com. Angela Logan originally sold the cakes to help pay her mortgage. Or give the gift that keeps giving with a food-of-the-month club like the one offered by Bangerang Bake Shop. Your loved one will get one delicious cupcake a month for six months.

Give an Experience

No matter how much stuff a person has, they can always use a fresh life experience. So instead of giving them a new shirt or a book, give them an unforgettable experience. Use a website like Cloud9Living.com to select an experience that will fit any budget or location. If the person is less adventurous, choose something like a massage or a round of golf. If they love a good adrenaline rush, give them the chance to bungee jump or try out a trapeze. It’s definitely a gift they’ll remember.

Whether they follow in the footsteps of Picasso or paint homes and buildings for a living, there are plenty of gift-giving ideas to consider for house painters that speak to their trade. When you’re looking for a present that brings a smile to a painter’s face, consider the following gifts for the colorful professional in your life.

Gift Basket of Painting Goodies

From Painter Goggles with peel-off lens covers and anti-fog coating to using painter rags as gift basket fillers, the possibilities are endless when creating a gift basket for professional painters. Available in a variety of lengths and widths, painter’s tape (like 3M Scotch-Blue Painter’s Tape for Multi-Surfaces), is another item worthy for a gift basket for painters. This particular option works well with semi-smooth to semi-rough woodwork, glass and metal surfaces. The blue color of the tape makes it easier to locate and lift off when a job is complete.

Painting-Related Jewelry

From dangling earrings to pendants for necklaces, a palette full of color is a popular representation for painters. Charms for bracelets may include a paintbrush, easel, or this Painters Palette with Enamel Colors by West Coast Jewelry. With intricate detail, choose this Painter’s Palette Pin (shown), which is comprised of Austrian crystals, beads, and other eye-catching materials.

Power Tools

Anything that makes a job easier for a professional house painter is a good gift idea. For example, the Wagner Project Power Painter uses a 1-quart receptacle to spray paint using Optimus Dual Tip Technology. Painters enjoy even coverage, less overspray and more control with this power tool, which offers quick set up and clean up. This gift comes with one power painter, dual tips, one-quart paint reservoir, oil lubricant, and cleaning brush.

St Luke the Apostle

As the patron saint of physicians and painters, St. Luke the Apostle makes a meaningful gift. Choose from necklace and bracelet charms in gold or sterling silver (such as the St. Luke the Apostle Medal by Bliss).

Paint Brushes

Can a painter ever have enough paintbrushes? Professional house painters are constantly in need of edging and trimming brushes, as well as various sizes of polyester brushes. Another gift to keep in mind for the creative painter is a set of flat, oval and round Fine Art Paint Brushes that can handle many different painting styles, including watercolors, oil, and acrylics.

Acrylic Paints

For loved ones who use acrylic paints, a fresh supply always comes in handy. Perhaps you’d like to introduce the oil painter in your family to a new medium. Acrylic paints come in large sizes, small tubes, and assorted collections. For example, the Liquitex Basics Acrylic Color Set provides 48 tubes of quick-drying paint that are AP safe and certified. This generous set offers all the popular colors needed to create stunning masterpieces. Featured is the set of 24 Liquitex paints.

Having your first place is a big deal! Whether it’s a small, tiny apartment or a big country house with a pool in the back yard, buying gifts for the first time owner in your life is always a great gesture! On this occasion, practical gifts, like furniture, are probably the best and will help with the transition.

After spending an arm and a leg on their favorite place, not a lot is left to spend on elegant furniture. So, be it patio furniture or living room furniture, this kind of gift would be just perfect!

Tips

When choosing a furniture gift, always remember:

Every person is different. Make sure you know their preferences and style before spending $200 – $300 or more! Is it modern? Is it rustic? Is it Victorian?

Ask them what plans they have; this will make your task of giving easier.

Make sure you know how big the place is; go visit or ask them to send you some pictures!

In big living rooms:  select furniture groupings; it’s recommended that you avoid mirrors and glass tops on tables as they create the illusion of space. It is also recommended to furnish big rooms with large pieces of furniture, including fully upholstered sofas and chairs. Dark woods, tall bookcases, accessories (like lamps, pillows) and plants (like potted trees) will help make the room look smaller.

In small living rooms: small, glass tables will give an uncluttered feel while bench-style sofas with minimal cushioning will make a room look a little larger; a mirror that reflects a view will make the room appear brighter and larger.

For the patio or porch: simply by choosing a hammock or a wood swing, you will instantly give the gift of relaxation and start that man-made oasis that everyone looks forward to! Some patio furniture, a fountain or a BBQ grill can transform patios into an inviting, family friendly space.

Nowadays, shopping for furniture is easier than ever! And with great selections at low prices like those offered by Overstock.com, the hardest thing is choosing the right gift!

Ways to save at Overstock.com

Join the OMail and receive discounts and coupons in your inbox!

Join Club O Rewards and receive money back.

Always check the Sales page! And the Redline Deals!

According to the Humane Society, there are an estimated 93.6 million owned cats in the United States. With a resounding ‘meow,’ cat lovers are fanatics for anything feline and when it comes time to give a gift – do you have a clue what to get? If you’re looking for a few cat gift ideas, consider the following suggestions:

Toys for Kitty

From plastic balls decorated with feathers to trinkets that jingle, cat toys are meant to entertain and keep felines sharp – both mentally and physically. If you’re looking to truly stimulate the mind of a cat, consider the SmartCat Peek-A-Prize Cat Toy Box – a heavy-duty wood toy box that hides toys inside. It actually promotes the natural predatory behavior of cats. Scratching posts (like the SmartCat Perch for the Ultimate Scratching Post shown above) are also a popular toy amongst cats and today, you can choose from an array of creative selections that can fit into any décor scheme.

Catnip

Belonging to the mint family, catnip can give great pleasure to a feline. They will rub it, roll over in it, paw at it, and find themselves in ecstasy for several minutes at a time. You can choose to purchase a catnip plant for a cat lover, which they can keep as a houseplant or transfer to their garden for an outdoor cat.

Cat’s Eye

When cut in a rounded shape, cat’s eye reflects light in an attractive fashion – similar to the way the eyes of cats seem to radiant in the dark. From rings to earrings, there are many different pieces of cat’s eye jewelry to consider, such as this affordable Sterling Silver Stylish Interchangeable Round Cats Eye Stone Filigree Ring Set .

Charm Bracelet

Charms bracelets offer a delightful way to express the interests of the wearer. Many come ready-made to accommodate a specific theme, while others allow the wearer to add charms to commemorate special milestones. For cat lovers, choose a bracelet with a couple charms related to felines and leave the rest to the wearer. A few charm ideas include a Halloween cat, outstretched cat, cat head, paw print, and even a mouse.

Litter Box

If you think it’s time for your loved one to upgrade their kitty litter box, the Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box will certainly do the trick. This particular model self cleans by rolling to the right and back again, where waste collects in a pullout tray for quick and easy disposal. Other advantages include odor and dust control – perfect for large cats and multiple-cat households.

Personalized Gifts

From custom verses engraved on canvas to laser engraved wooden frames, cat lovers enjoy posing with their companions, as well as framing their endless antics captured on film. Another way to pay homage to a furry companion is to have their likeness placed on a coffee cup. Other personalized cat gift ideas include food dishes, nametags, and digital photo ornaments.

Keep in Touch with Friends by Sharing a Journal. photo courtesy of The Travelling Journal

Just about everyone has a long distance relationship– it could be a romantic one, a family member or a close friend. Job commitments, school obligations and military deployments take us away from the people we love. Maybe your former co-worker moved across town, or maybe your cousin headed to another state. We are a country of movers and we’re not just moving away from our spouses, distance is coming between friendships, too. According to Census statistics, in 2009 12.5% of people moved, with one out of three moving at least to another county, some to another country. Staying connected with those friends is tough, but one way to let them know you care is by sending a gift. Here are some gift ideas that will help you stay connected with loved ones who are far away.

DVD

A DVD may not sound like a very personal gift, but sometimes it’s the simple things like going to a movie together that people miss most with long distance relationships. Pick out a movie you’ll both enjoy and make plans to watch it the same night– even if you are in different states or time zones. Then you can talk about the movie next time you’re on the phone together.

The Traveling Journal

Started by five friends who grew up together in a small Iowa town, TheTravelingJournal.com offers a way to stay connected with friends and loved ones in a more personal way than Facebook or text messages. The idea is simple– pick out a journal, write in it and send it on its way. There are plenty of available accessories to enhance the experience, but soon you and your long distance loved ones will be sharing the intimate details of life on the pages of your Traveling Journal. And don’t worry about over-spending on postage. Every journal is designed to fit in a flat rate box from the USPS. Another positive? It will give the mail carrier something besides bills to deliver to your home.

Pre-Paid Phone Cards

Do you spend a lot of time on the phone with your long distance friends? Send them a pre-paid phone card so they can dial you up without worrying about racking up a big bill. Plus you’ll be letting them know that you enjoy hearing their voice.

Custom Stationery

Give your friends and family members a good reason to keep in touch with cute custom note cards from FabulousStationery.com. A pack of 100 Mini Notes will cost you $55 and should last a while. If you really want to make sure they use them, include a book of stamps, too.

A T-Shirt Flower Pillow

These days everyone is looking for ways to be more eco-friendly– even when it comes to giving gifts. This simple project is definitely green, but it’s also easy. We’ll show you how to turn an old t-shirt or leftover fabric scraps into a cute flower with just a few simple steps. All you need is an old t-shirt, a pair of scissors, a needle and thread, and a few minutes.

Use the flower to create a barrette, pin or attach it to a drab pillow for a unique creation. Whatever you choose to design, you’ll end up with a great, affordable handmade gift that any of your loved ones will appreciate– especially since they won’t be able to find another one like it in any store.

Step One

Step One: Cut out simple flower shapes of various sizes in an old t-shirt. Depending on whether you plan to use your flower to jazz up a pillow or to create a hair clip, your flower sizes will need to be adjusted. Create four different sizes. You will only need one flower in the largest size. Cut our four of each of the other three sizes. In all, you should have 13 flowers cut out.

Step Two: Lay the biggest flower on a flat surface. Take the next smallest size of flower and fold each one in half. Then fold them in half again. Position the four flowers so that the points meet in the

Steps two, three and four

center of the largest flower. Using a coordinating thread, simply hand stitch each section at the point, attaching these four pieces of fabric to the largest flower.

Step Three: Repeat step two with four more folded flowers in the next smallest size.

Step Four: Once again, repeat the stitching process one last time with the smallest flowers.

Step Five: How you finish your flower is up to you. You can stitch on a pin or barrette to the back, or you can attach it to a pillow like this one. Whatever you decide to create, it will be a low-cost, green gift that someone is sure to love.

Photos courtesy of Michelle Suarez