tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-92832742011-04-21T17:41:50.941-04:00Christmas Gifts and More: Gift ideas, tips and advice for an exceptional holiday season - from Grace Galloway (aka 'The Gift Guru')Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comBlogger921100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103820702514636802004-12-23T11:49:00.000-05:002004-12-23T11:51:42.516-05:00

That's it for this blog for now - this has been a lot of fun. I may start a more non-Christmas gift blog, and I'll post occasionally throughout the year. I expect to be back next year to help you celebrate Christmas. In the meantime, if you want any ideas for final gifts when you shop tomorrow, check out these sites: Wow Christmas Gifts, Best Selling Christmas Toys, About Bratz, About Halo 2,

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103813524630803332004-12-23T09:46:00.000-05:002004-12-23T09:52:04.630-05:00

I have 3 today - enjoy... Marvin Non Sequitur Adam

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103805482666981772004-12-23T07:36:00.000-05:002004-12-23T07:38:02.666-05:00

This book has 228 heirloom cookie recipes with some going back to colonial days and around the world. It's called 'Fabulous Old-Time Cookies.' Each recipe is on it's own page for easy use. And it's an electronic book (ebook), so you can order it now and print it out on your printer in time for Christmas. Very yummy! Check it out.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103743665066254072004-12-22T14:26:00.000-05:002004-12-22T14:27:45.066-05:00

This article on the truth about mistletoe is a fun read...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103735617582319502004-12-22T13:12:00.000-05:002004-12-22T12:13:37.583-05:00

Last night we went to a wonderful Christmas party. The hostess wanted us to sing Christmas carols. So, she got on the Internet, and then printed the words from quite a few Christmas carols on red and green construction paper to create a little booklet of carols. It was really fun - and I learned the words to a lot of carols. Highly recommended if you're giving a party.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103738997042304792004-12-22T13:09:00.000-05:002004-12-22T13:09:57.043-05:00

Enjoy!

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103728823203226362004-12-22T10:19:00.000-05:002004-12-22T10:20:23.203-05:00

Only 3 more sleeps. ;-) If you're anything like me, you still have some last minute gifts to pick up - for folks you find hard to buy for, or for someone who's just announced they'll see you for Christmas, for example. Don't panic. :) It's still possible to get lots of last minute gifts. Some things are instantly downloadable, others will guarantee that they'll be shipped TODAY, and still

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103649209984879102004-12-21T13:12:00.000-05:002004-12-21T12:13:29.986-05:00

I laughed at this one...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103640979367743332004-12-21T09:55:00.000-05:002004-12-21T09:56:19.366-05:00

It's too late for some of these tips, but there is a lot of useful advice here, even at this late date. Check out this article called 'Are You Going To Survive The Holidays?'

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103628990301495692004-12-21T06:34:00.000-05:002004-12-21T06:36:30.300-05:00

Electric trains debuted in 1901 as part of a store window display, and have been fun for children and collectors ever since. Today, model trains are collector's items and a hugely popular hobby among young and old alike. Check out some of the most popular model trains and electric trains this year.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103572987278738012004-12-20T15:02:00.000-05:002004-12-20T15:03:07.276-05:00

The National Association of State Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs) has compiled their list of specific toys that aren't safe -- it was updated in October and November 2004. Check it out.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103555231015916102004-12-20T10:06:00.000-05:002004-12-20T10:07:11.016-05:00

Enjoy...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103539948235604522004-12-20T05:51:00.000-05:002004-12-20T05:52:28.236-05:00

Unique gifts can be key when you've known someone for a long time, can't they? When you've bought a gift for someone year after year - whether it's a spouse, a close friend, or a 'secret sister' doesn't seem to matter - it's just hard to come up with unique gifts every year, and yet it's so important! There is still time to arrange for unique gifts, though, and you just need a little

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103482670265322882004-12-19T13:54:00.000-05:002004-12-19T13:57:50.266-05:00

If you receive a new computer, the anti virus and anti spyware software may be out of date, so be sure to update them. To learn all about anti virus issues and spyware, visit Internet ScamBusters.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103477596793847722004-12-19T13:32:00.000-05:002004-12-19T12:33:16.793-05:00

Enjoy this one -- it's not new but it's cute.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103471116769547162004-12-19T10:42:00.000-05:002004-12-19T10:45:16.770-05:00

One of the most frequently asked holiday etiquette questions involves the practice of re-gifting. For some pros and cons, as well as some tips if you plan to re-gift, click here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103466044947049082004-12-19T09:20:00.000-05:002004-12-19T09:20:44.946-05:00

In addition to the books, there are lots of Harry Potter games, dishes, Legos, clothing items and other novelty gifts on the market this year. Check out the most popular Harry Potter gifts here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103392217028086932004-12-18T13:49:00.000-05:002004-12-18T12:50:17.026-05:00

Check out these 5 popular holiday scams and find out how to shop safely online.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103382836303047762004-12-18T10:13:00.000-05:002004-12-18T10:13:56.303-05:00

This one makes me smile...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103378791263285622004-12-18T09:05:00.000-05:002004-12-18T09:06:31.263-05:00

Scooters have been great gifts for decades - but they are becoming more safe, more sophisticated, and a lot more fun as the years go by. Check out some of the best selling scooters - for kids - here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103371821362651992004-12-18T07:07:00.000-05:002004-12-18T07:10:21.363-05:00

It's easy to buy gifts for children if you're only thinking about toys. Even then, it's always a good idea to get some guidelines, though - for example, the media tells us what the hottest Christmas toys are every year, and you can often look up recommendations for the safest toys, as well. But there are other kinds of gifts for children if you don't want to just buy toys - again. If you

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103324717877142532004-12-17T15:34:00.000-05:002004-12-17T18:05:17.876-05:00

Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for injuries, such as falls, cuts and shocks, related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees. So, here are some more safety tips for decorating safely for the holiday season.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103315623425698402004-12-17T14:32:00.000-05:002004-12-17T15:33:43.426-05:00

This one is a classic...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103300615758448732004-12-17T10:14:00.000-05:002004-12-17T11:23:35.760-05:00

Here's a very different site - Letters from Bad Santa - for people with a certain sense of humor. My favorite part was the Nigerian Santa scam.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103295965390205582004-12-17T10:04:00.000-05:002004-12-17T10:06:05.390-05:00

A Christmas gift for your host or hostess is appropriate, and always a good idea, if you are going to be a guest in anyone's home this Season. Your host probably won't expect a Christmas gift - we're all so much less formal than we used to be, aren't we? - but it's such a nice gesture. Did you know that the old English word "wassail" is associated with Christmas socializing? It comes from the

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103287472787545202004-12-17T07:43:00.000-05:002004-12-17T07:44:32.786-05:00

Since 1963, there have been a total of 11 Easy Bake Oven models. It's a very popular toy this year - the technology has completely changed, and the new name reflects this. It's now called the 'Easy Bake Real Meal Oven.' Click here to see the most popular Easy Bake Ovens.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103223883952445042004-12-16T14:02:00.000-05:002004-12-16T14:04:43.953-05:00

Here's an excellent article: If holiday gatherings stress you out, follow these tips to get more organized for Christmas.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103214392620229392004-12-16T11:25:00.000-05:002004-12-16T11:26:32.620-05:00

There are lots of RC vehicles, but one you probably haven't thought of is the remote control snowmobile. It makes an awesome gift.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103210408274423302004-12-16T10:19:00.000-05:002004-12-16T10:20:08.273-05:00

Enjoy...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103196517588394922004-12-16T06:26:00.000-05:002004-12-16T06:28:37.586-05:00

Thinking about luxury gifts gives all of us a chance to dream, doesn't it? Every year, Neiman-Marcus comes out with its catalogue of Christmas offerings, and I like to check out the luxury gifts I'd love to buy for everyone - it's a great stress reliever to just pretend for awhile! For example, for luxury gifts over $4000, you can buy the special woman on your list a Gucci raffia shoulder bag

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103145363481888272004-12-15T16:14:00.000-05:002004-12-15T16:16:03.480-05:00

Be careful about opening electronic greeting cards - you may be getting the Zafi Worm instead. Emails including a misspelled attachment - "Happy Hollydays" - have started making the rounds yesterday. Don't open them. For more info, click here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103142788323457882004-12-15T15:32:00.000-05:002004-12-15T15:33:08.323-05:00

I thought many of you would enjoy this one...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103128908000722042004-12-15T11:40:00.000-05:002004-12-15T11:41:48.000-05:00

Thinking about home entertainment gifts made me realize I had now posted anything specifically about gifts for men. And many women find men quite difficult to shop for. So here are a few great Christmas gift ideas -- just for him. We hope you enjoy these ideas of gifts for men.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103122754212397312004-12-15T09:58:00.000-05:002004-12-15T09:59:14.213-05:00

Home entertainment gifts are likely going to be one of the hottest Christmas gifts this year, for everyone from 18 to 83. Some of the most popular home entertainment gifts include televisions (from huge flat screens to 12-volt models, there's LOTS to choose from), DVD players, digital video recorders (from which families can make, edit and play their own movies), home theatres and standard

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103113743814097882004-12-15T07:27:00.000-05:002004-12-15T07:29:03.813-05:00

Puzzles come in all types and sizes -- from jigsaw puzzles to 'brain teaser' puzzles,' from crossword puzzles to word puzzles. Puzzles are one of the most versatile gifts you can give your children - there's something for every age, lifestyle and interest. You can find some of the most popular puzzles here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103058544968610672004-12-14T16:06:00.000-05:002004-12-14T16:09:04.966-05:00

I order personalized gifts for a few of the really special people on my Christmas gift list every year. Personalized gifts can make anyone feel special, and that’s pretty important this time of year. There are so many choices - from monogrammed golf balls to collectible figurines - you can check out everyone’s ‘wish list’ for the possibilities of personalized gifts. Even chocolate and other

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103057626012965642004-12-14T15:52:00.000-05:002004-12-14T15:53:46.013-05:00

Each year the costs are tallied. See the results for 2004 here. (Unfortunately, they now make you register -- but it's free).

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1103025698237879982004-12-14T07:00:00.000-05:002004-12-14T07:01:38.236-05:00

Try Lobster Gram Deluxe Dinner for Two. Live Maine lobsters, reusable cooking pot, accessories -- everything needed for a fresh, romantic lobster dinner!

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102959014855809672004-12-13T13:29:00.000-05:002004-12-13T12:30:14.856-05:00

Here's a bit of Christmas clip art you can download if you need some fun Santas for any holiday cards, crafts, etc. you may be creating. Enjoy!

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102949168927042362004-12-13T09:45:00.000-05:002004-12-13T09:46:08.926-05:00

Some of my gift ideas this year include ones that will help save the planet – or at least not ‘burden’ it any further. By practicing an environmentally sound lifestyle, even at Christmas, your gift ideas can expand beyond retail presents – and there are more great ‘eco’ alternatives every year. Instead of spending lots of money on fancy gift wrap (that may end up in a landfill), why not use

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102940181311693352004-12-13T07:15:00.000-05:002004-12-13T07:16:21.310-05:00

Here are some very useful safety tips about holiday decorating from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102884551212923722004-12-12T15:48:00.000-05:002004-12-12T15:49:11.213-05:00

Thought you'd enjoy this one...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102869657022190392004-12-12T11:39:00.000-05:002004-12-12T11:40:57.023-05:00

The holidays are particularly tough times for single parents who don't have custody of their children -- they are really hard hit, as are the children. Here is an article that talks about lots of ways to stay in touch with your children and keep the closeness even if you can't be together.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102865333143266782004-12-12T10:25:00.000-05:002004-12-12T10:28:53.143-05:00

3 great suggestions for teen gifts... I think teen gifts for Christmas are sometimes the hardest ones to find, and to buy. I mean, most teens kind of seem like they’re from another planet or something, so how can we mere mortals know what they’d like for Christmas? Well, been there, done that, so I’d like to offer a few suggestions on shopping for teen Christmas gifts. My first word of

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102785384550901942004-12-11T13:15:00.000-05:002004-12-11T12:16:24.550-05:00

Here's an article that's geared to small businesses, but it's a good reminder for anyone buying electronics during the holidays (or other times, too). You'll find some useful tips for buying everything electronic from computers to digital cameras.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102781276267433232004-12-11T11:07:00.000-05:002004-12-11T11:18:27.156-05:00

Not sure what to buy Uncle Harold? Christmas gift certificates to the rescue... Christmas gift certificates are one of the best seasonal ideas since mincemeat pie, aren't they? I don't know about you, but every year, in addition to loved ones and cherished friends and neighbors, there is inevitably a couple of people on my gift list that I'm expected (and willing!) to buy for, but I don't

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102778048931791542004-12-11T10:13:00.000-05:002004-12-11T10:14:08.933-05:00

As you probably know, everything remote control (RC) is very hot this year. Here's a new site all about remote control cars, trucks, boats, planes, helicopters -- even snowmobiles. Check it out!

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102773982594317492004-12-11T09:04:00.000-05:002004-12-17T07:48:18.686-05:00

Sorry, this is no longer available. :-( But you could create your own letter from Santa -- here's what the original offer said... The letter from Santa includes: * Your child's name, home town, and best friends name. * Postmarked from the North Pole and mailed with a Santa stamp. * Signed by Santa himself. * High quality paper and stationary. Have more than 1 child? No problem - they

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102695970121041872004-12-10T11:23:00.000-05:002004-12-10T11:26:10.120-05:00

If you have friends or family members who are overwhelmed with their technology - or are constantly talking about the problems they are having with their computers, PDAs, or other digital gear - I have a great gift suggestion for you: a gift certificate to AnswerSquad. For less than the price of even the least expensive software package, you can ensure that their experience with any new computer

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102695125105202992004-12-10T11:10:00.000-05:002004-12-10T11:12:05.106-05:00

We briefly mentioned Bratz dolls in an earlier post. They have a real fashion sense and style, as well as a great attitude. They are definitely not Barbie! Bratz dolls are extraordinarily popular -- and now there is a new site all about Bratz dolls and accessories. We recommend you check it out.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102691946155016142004-12-10T10:18:00.000-05:002004-12-10T10:22:58.096-05:00

Two front teeth are no match for hot Christmas toys... Christmas toys are what Christmas is all about to many children, and this year is no different. A little 6-year-old boy I know just lost his first 'baby tooth,' and the one beside it is loose, of course. That's prompted his folks to start teaching him to sing the old classic song, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth..." and

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102625574317402492004-12-09T15:51:00.000-05:002004-12-09T15:52:54.316-05:00

If you're considering buying Halo 2 as a gift - or you're a Halo 2 fan - you might want to check out this new Halo 2 website. You'll find a lot of info on Halo 2, including info on Halo 2 weapons and vehicles.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102618927606676812004-12-09T14:00:00.000-05:002004-12-09T14:02:07.606-05:00

Gift baskets are a popular gift, especially for corporate gift giving. But there's a problem with gift baskets - they get thrown away, and you get forgotten, as soon as all the goodies are gone. We've just found a company that's doing it differently: Corporate-Gift-Baskets.com has a whole line of really cool gift baskets that recipients simply aren't going to throw away at the end of the day.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102610611629342972004-12-09T11:43:00.000-05:002004-12-09T11:51:10.950-05:00

A Christmas gift idea can be fun, frivolous... or FREE! Coming up with a different Christmas gift idea for everyone on your list can be a challenge at best, and an absolute nightmare, at worst. One solution could be to just buy everyone the very same thing. In Truman Capote's classic Christmas tale, "A Christmas Memory," an identical gift was bestowed on the bootlegger, the bus driver, the

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102542628559359242004-12-08T16:49:00.000-05:002004-12-08T16:51:16.870-05:00

I hope you enjoy today's Christmas laugh...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102523371195618582004-12-08T11:28:00.000-05:002004-12-08T11:32:33.813-05:00

Trends: A new study by Goldman Sachs & Co., Harris Interactive and Nielsen/NetRatings says online consumers spent $8.8 billion in November, up 19 percent from the same period in 2003, and up 62 percent from 2002. Apparel was the hottest category at $1.5 billion, toys and video games -- including hardware and software -- were #2 at $1 billion (and grew 43% over last year), and DVDs and videos came

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102520211872937572004-12-08T10:35:00.000-05:002004-12-08T10:37:20.546-05:00

So many people are stressed out and over-worked these days that holiday gift ideas that focus on pampering are especially welcome. Here are some 'pampering' type holiday gift ideas to get your creative juices flowing...

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102441940392998342004-12-07T13:51:00.000-05:002004-12-07T12:52:20.393-05:00

Digital cameras are great holiday gifts. Find free advice about shopping for digital cameras here - what to look for and what to avoid.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102433967424853882004-12-07T10:38:00.000-05:002004-12-07T10:39:27.426-05:00

During the eight days of Hanukkah, gifts are appropriate for both children and adults in the Jewish faith. Some of the customs associated with this seasonal celebration lend themselves nicely to Hanukkah gifts - for example, it is sometimes called the Festival of Lights due to the lighting of the Menorah. A beautiful Menorah - in glass, silver, brass, as well as many other materials - would

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102360908978024532004-12-06T14:20:00.000-05:002004-12-06T14:23:07.203-05:00

Shopping online has many advantages, but it's important to do so safely. Check out this article for some online holiday shopping safety tips, including what to do if something does go wrong. And here's another article for you with 8 tips for safely shopping online during the holiday season.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102351698976753382004-12-06T11:42:00.000-05:002004-12-06T11:48:18.976-05:00

Gift cards are becoming the gift of choice this year. According to the National Retail Federation, a Washington-based retail trade group, U.S. consumers will spend $17.3 billion on gift cards this holiday season -- up $100 million from last year! Nonetheless, retailers want to help gift cards lose their reputation as an unimaginative substitute for a traditional present, so they are now offering

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102344724948920882004-12-06T09:50:00.000-05:002004-12-06T09:52:04.946-05:00

Clothing gifts are always a big hit, and this year should be no exception. According to the folks who predict things like fashion trends, 'cocooning' - the fine art of staying at home and relaxing - will continue to be popular throughout the decade. This is good news for Christmas clothing gift shoppers this year, since leisure and casual wear are easy to buy for even hard-to-buy for folks.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102331084377872102004-12-06T06:03:00.000-05:002004-12-06T06:04:44.376-05:00

The Jewish holiday, Hanukkah, will begin at sundown tomorrow on December 7th and continue to be celebrated for 8 days until sundown on December 15th in 2004. (The observance of all Jewish holidays begins at sunset the previous day). Jewish holidays always acknowledge events with historical and religious meaning. Hanukkah means "dedication," and it commemorates the rededication of the Temple

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102275117436819702004-12-05T14:31:00.000-05:002004-12-05T14:31:57.436-05:00

I thought you'd enjoy this Christmas gifts laugh.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102255664388679942004-12-05T09:06:00.000-05:002004-12-05T09:09:03.300-05:00

Food gifts are generally appreciated year-round, but during the holiday season, food gifts seem even more special. Are you doing some last-minute Christmas baking today? Didn't think so! Seems like so few of us have the time, any more, to do that good old-fashioned Christmas baking our mothers and grandmothers were 'famous' for. And yet we all love to eat during the holiday season - and

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102206476594733532004-12-04T19:26:00.000-05:002004-12-04T19:27:56.596-05:00

This comes from yesterday's Dear Abby: DEAR ABBY: With the holidays approaching, I would like to share an alternative to the traditional office gift exchange. For the past few years, we have drawn names, but instead of buying gifts, we buy toys that in some way remind us of the person whose name we have drawn. The toy can represent their hobby, their job, their personality, etc. After

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102176407676284502004-12-04T11:04:00.000-05:002004-12-04T11:09:39.820-05:00

We just put up some more new pages on the BestSellingChristmasToys.com site -- this time about more hot toys -- Bratz, Video Now Jr. and Video Now Color. Check them out!

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102169391882399162004-12-04T09:07:00.000-05:002004-12-04T09:09:51.883-05:00

Buying your pet gifts for Christmas is a 'no-brainer' if you have a pet (or good friends with pets) and you love Christmas like I do! For many of us, our pet ranks right up there with our kids (and for some folks who have no kids, pets take their place!) so we wouldn’t dream of NOT buying pet gifts for Christmas. Luckily, many merchants know exactly where our pet-owner hearts are this time of

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102122243880180762004-12-03T20:02:00.000-05:002004-12-03T20:05:03.533-05:00

You can find brand new pages on the BestSellingChristmasToys.com site about Halo 2, Halo 2 Preview, Halo 2 Cheats, and Halo 2 Vehicles. And, you might also want to check out the Xbox page while you're visiting.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102073219601096142004-12-03T06:26:00.001-05:002004-12-03T06:30:29.950-05:00

Christmas gift shopping can get expensive, can't it? It's payday for me today, and I don't know about you, but I need to pay close attention to paydays close to Christmas to make sure I'm keeping my Christmas gift shopping within reason. I'd LOVE to get everything all my loved ones want for Christmas, but that's not possible - or even realistic. Luckily for those of us on limited incomes,

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102032800315227952004-12-02T19:12:00.000-05:002004-12-02T19:14:22.543-05:00

One of the most popular gifts this year (for kids of almost any age) :) is Robosapien the Robot. Created by Wow Wee International, Robosapien is definitely worth checking out.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1102004098628666342004-12-02T11:14:00.000-05:002004-12-02T11:20:40.160-05:00

Create a gift Christmas registry for yourself - and tell your recipients to start one, too... Well, folks, believe it or not, there's only three more weekends before Christmas Day, so if you work full time, there aren't a whole lot more shopping days for you. One of the ways you can relax about that is to suggest to folks on your gift list that they get their information into a Christmas gift

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101990899003215572004-12-02T07:34:00.000-05:002004-12-02T07:36:11.170-05:00

I thought you might like to start today off with some inspiration from these wonderful Christmas quotes. While you're there, why not subscribe to 'Your Inspirational Quote,' delivered 5 times a week to your inbox? It's a great way to start every day.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101929917912201922004-12-01T14:36:00.000-05:002004-12-01T14:39:24.463-05:00

We just found an excellent collection of winter holiday games for kids. You'll find fun options for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. While you're there (if you have kids), I recommend you subscribe to Barbara's free ezine, Surfing the Net with Kids. You'll find the subscription box at the bottom of the page.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101899003573229092004-12-01T06:02:00.000-05:002004-12-01T06:03:23.573-05:00

Holiday stress relief shopping tips... The festive season is full of joy, but it is also without a doubt one of the most stressful times of the year for many of us. For those of you who shop at your local malls, here are some tips to make the experience as stress-free as possible. First, get some holiday stress relief through the many malls that have 'in-house' services you can take advantage

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101828237207179132004-11-30T10:23:00.000-05:002004-11-30T10:23:57.220-05:00

Did you know that the fruitcake, which we now associate with Christmas, was first created and named during the 1400s, in the Middle Ages? A fruitcake is a heavy cake made mostly of dried or candied fruits and nuts usually soaked in brandy or rum (which helps preserve them, of course); the ancient Romans used pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, and raisins, as well as honey and spices, mixed into

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101818723879772842004-11-30T07:44:00.000-05:002004-11-30T07:45:23.880-05:00

Each year, our friend Rick Beneteau helps organize the Internet Toy Drive. Since millions of children in the US don't have a single gift to open on Christmas day, the Internet Toy Drive is aimed at making sure that EVERY child has at least one present 'from Santa' under their tree. Audri, Jim and I enthusiastically support Rick's efforts every year. Click here to learn more about the Internet

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101763629300787122004-11-29T16:20:00.000-05:002004-11-29T16:27:57.956-05:00

Consumer groups say 'buyer beware' for toy safety... Toy safety is important at any time of year, but at Christmas, even more so. Consumer groups say that 41% of us do our Christmas shopping online, which is a great time-saver - but it also means we may not have a chance to check out what we're buying as carefully as we might in a brick-and-mortar store. American manufacturers claim that

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101727998493985032004-11-29T06:32:00.000-05:002004-11-29T06:33:52.380-05:00

Don't forget your party host -- gifts for women she'll cherish... Holiday season is fast approaching, and that means, for many of us, lots of Christmas cocktail parties, potlucks and other seasonal get-togethers. There's no need to break the bank, but it is appropriate to have a small gift to give your hostess at each event you attend this season. I'm going to make the assumption that your

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101690215566265542004-11-28T20:02:00.000-05:002004-11-28T20:04:49.896-05:00

Using Christmas decorations to celebrate the advent is an old religious tradition that many non-secular folks also indulge in this time of year. Advent is the beginning of the 'Church Year,' and it always starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas day - so, the Sunday nearest November 30. Advent ends on Christmas Eve (Dec 24). How handy for non-religious folks that Advent also starts

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101661848765362412004-11-28T13:08:00.000-05:002004-11-28T12:11:44.873-05:00

Stocking stuffers essential regardless of which Christmas tree you choose... Are you having the great Christmas tree debate at your house this year? I know what that's like... you love the smell of real pine, but the pine needles in the carpet drive you crazy. You love the natural shape of a real tree, but then get so busy you forget to water it. You want to do your part to save the

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101650703115145522004-11-28T09:03:00.000-05:002004-11-28T09:08:07.933-05:00

Here's some excellent advice on how to select a Christmas tree. Then, if you want some advice on what Christmas gifts to put under the perfect tree, click here.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101607828422390742004-11-27T21:09:00.000-05:002004-11-27T21:10:28.423-05:00

We've learned a lot about this holiday shopping season -- after just the first day! The Friday after Thanksgiving is the traditional start of the Christmas shopping season, and it's called 'Black Friday.' Every wonder why the start of the holiday shopping season is called Black Friday? It's not because it's still black out when you start shopping at 5:00am. ;-) It's called Black Friday

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101584886705413462004-11-27T14:47:00.000-05:002004-11-27T14:49:21.496-05:00

Hosting a holiday party? Use your Christmas decorations as a theme... Is it your turn to host a Christmas party this year? If you're like me, it's just one more thing on the (long!) list of things you need to get through this season -- and yet, you are looking forward to enjoying the company of your co-workers or friends in a relaxed atmosphere. One way to make it less stressful for yourself

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101556258423857852004-11-27T06:49:00.000-05:002004-11-27T06:52:03.736-05:00

Curious what people will be buying this Christmas shopping season? - Jewelry will top the list, and account for 25% of holiday purchases; - Home entertainment items will be next; - Followed by women's accessories, home furnishings and Men's wear. When did Santa first appear in a mall? 1950. How much does a full-time Santa earn? $8,000 for the season. For more fun facts, visit now.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101520426417530332004-11-26T20:52:00.000-05:002004-11-26T20:56:55.703-05:00

A US consumer group has published its annual list of toys that pose threats to children, with the potential to smother, throttle, poison or deafen a child. I recommend you avoid these toys. ;-)

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101502125215204562004-11-26T16:26:00.000-05:002004-11-26T15:50:54.813-05:00

Unique gift baskets are part of an interesting trend this year. That's because one of the trends in gift-giving for 2004 is coordinated 'gift ensembles'... groups of related items presented in holly, jolly holiday gift baskets or boxes. Being able to shop for unique gift baskets quickly and easily makes them ideal for some of the people on your list. With not even a month to go until the big

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101472633747302342004-11-26T07:35:00.000-05:002004-11-26T07:37:37.816-05:00

Today is the official start of the Christmas season. One of my neighbors got up at 4:30 this morning so she and her daughter could hit the mall when it opened at 5:00am. Not for me. :) I just read an interesting article from Newszap -- they seem to agree with my predictions. Check it out: Children can expect to find something old and something new under the Christmas tree this year, with

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101396461128719992004-11-25T10:26:00.000-05:002004-11-25T10:28:11.790-05:00

I know I said I wouldn't post until tomorrow, but I just found some excellent tips for both helping people who find Thanksgiving and the holiday season depressing, as well as some good general tips for keeping the holiday blues at bay. I wanted to share these with you today.

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101394463715936542004-11-25T09:53:00.000-05:002004-11-25T10:03:12.686-05:00

Today is the one day of the holiday season that I try not to think about shopping for Christmas presents, or about my ever-expanding 'to-do' list! With the family gathered around, great food to eat and pleasant memories to share, today I focus on gratitude - for all of that, and for the world we live in. In fact, I'm going to think about buying some eco-minded gifts for the people in my life,

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101341403866406982004-11-24T19:09:00.000-05:002004-11-24T19:15:53.300-05:00

There are 3 important trends in terms of the hottest toys for Christmas to watch for this year: (1) All the experts agree that 2004 will be a blockbuster year for Christmas toys. (2) There will not be one single 'must-have' Christmas toy this year (like Elmo, Cabbage Patch Dolls, or Furbys in prior years). (3) Nevertheless, you should expect big shortages of many popular toys this Christmas

Grace Galloway, The Gift Guruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01070054193844236160noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9283274.post-1101317332439796182004-11-24T11:58:00.000-05:002004-11-24T19:09:01.860-05:00

Hi! I'm Grace Galloway, but most of my friends call me 'the Gift Guru' because I love helping people find the perfect gift for every occasion. I've never blogged before, but this is definitely the time of year that most people are really focused on giving gifts - so I thought I'd give it a try. What will you find here? You'll discover lots of tips, ideas and advice for both finding the

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