I’ve had some exciting experiences this past year, but they weren’t the awesome fun kind you can get from Signature Days or Great American Days. Most people, including myself, would like to try new things, visit new places, and learn new skills, which is exactly why these make perfect additions to our New Year’s Resolutions list.

The beauty of an experience gift is that they are planned experiences and activities that can make positive changes in people’s lives. There are so many to choose from that there really is something for everyone.
Some of the more popular experiences are:
NASCAR, Dinner Cruises, Fighter Pilot, Cooking Classes, and Helicopter Tours.
Some of the more unique and unusual are:
Personal Jazz Performance, Rock ‘n Roll fantasy camp, be an Interior Designer, learn to DJ, Kids artistic discovery, and more.

Obviously these can make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, or just for the fun of it. These are all location based as some cities can offer certain experiences others can’t. This allows for either a truly memorable trip away from home, a fun surprise for a visiting family member, or, for those who live in big cities, just an easy way to get someone out of their house.

Some of my personal favorites are:
Private Raw Food Course, Vegetarian Cooking Class, Kids Drawing Class, Kids Surf Party, Stunt School, Skydiving, and Hot Air Balloon Rides. I’d look forward to any one of these experiences for myself if you are interested in buying me a gift certificate.

Where can I get these exciting experiences?
Great American Days and/or Signature Days. Both provide experiences as low as $50 with some experiences up into the $1000′s and both seem to have many options for many popular cities.

COUPON: Save 10% OFF at Signature Days, when you use coupon code SIGJASOND at checkout.

Posted by Sean in Just For You on December 31, 2007
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For the last 5 years or so, I’ve been promising myself that I would learn a new language. I debated between Japanese and Spanish for a number of reasons and even toyed with attempting to learn them simultaneously (ha ha). Since I live in southern California though, it’s just more practical to learn Spanish, and it’s easier to become immersed if I choose. But what’s slowed me down for 5 years, keeping me from becoming fluent in a second language? Mostly finding a language learning program that I thought I would be successful at. I’ve tried Pimsleur audio CDs and have some Berlitz phrase books, and while both were helpful in different regards, neither are the right product for me.

The system that kept coming up in my research was Rosetta Stone. I had heard about it so many times over the years, but had never been serious enough to buy one of their software packages. I wanted to be sure of my commitment before I spent $110+ for online-only instruction or $209 for the Level 1 software. After reading through tons of great reviews- Reviewica, HomeSchoolReviews, Language Book World- and downloading the free trial, I’m sold. As the Macworld review said, “if you’re willing to really dig in and spend time learning a foreign language, Rosetta Stone can provide a strong foundation”. If learning a new language is on your New Years Resolutions list, then Rosetta Stone is probably perfect for you, too.

Need some reasons to inspire you? There are lots of them, ranging from practical to fun.
Why learn a new language?

1. Friends & Family: communicate with your multi-lingual loved ones
2. Travel: do more than just “get by” when visiting a new country
3. Secret Communication: choose an uncommon language and forget about eavesdropping
4. Work: understand your business associates without an interpreter
5. Culture: better understand foreign film, music, and TV without subtitles
6. Emigration: moving to a different country or region

Lots more reasons for learning a new language are posted at Omniglot.

COUPON: Save 10% off Rosetta Stone, a free headset, and free shipping, when you use coupon code CJ127 at checkout.

¡buena suerte con sus estudios, cada una!

Posted by Lauren in Just For You on December 29, 2007
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Maybe it’s the post-holiday burnout talking, but peppering the remaining days of my winter break with prank calls sounds perfect. I can stay in my jammies all day, and in-between bites of leftover cake and Tofurky, I can spice things up with technology-assisted pranks.

With a SpoofCard you can make any number show up on caller ID. Let your intended prank victim think that the White House or someone from prison is calling. In fact, any 10 digit number can be used so similarly mind-boggling numbers like (000) 420-5150 could also be employed. For extra sneakiness, SpoofCard can change your voice from female to male (or vice versa) and they record your calls so you can giggle over them later. Oh man, why wasn’t this service available about 10 years ago?

As if SpoofCard didn’t offer enough ways to cause some trouble, LiarCard is the ultimate resource for telephone tomfoolery. Using voice analysis technology to discover the truth, LiarCard can “detect if your subject is excited, confused, stressed, unwillingly sharing information, anticipating your responses and even if your friend really likes you”. In addition to a web control panel that shows all the call details, a buzz is heard when the called party is suspected of lying. Yah, it’s got a lot of potential to really simplify or complicate your life. Studies show it to be over 95% accurate, but there’s one catch: your intended victim has to be “sane”. I’m not kidding, I read it in the fine print.

Both services are pre-paid cards that you can order online and start using immediately. SpoofCard and LiarCard have been around for a few years so you can Google their names to read stories about them from all the major news outlets. So choose your targets wisely and have fun pranking!

COUPON: Save 10% off SpoofCard when you use coupon code SS10. Expires December 31, 2007

Posted by Lauren in Fun,Gadgets on December 26, 2007
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The last Gadget Gift Roundup brought us multi-chargers, cleaning robots, DIY laptop bags and more. Part 2 brings us to some luxury gadgets, home gardening gadgets, the hands on type gifts, and more. Check out the gadgets below for some last minute gift ideas.

Aero Garden Pro: Give the gift of accomplishment. That’s how you feel in 4-6 weeks when you can harvest your garden. Grow lettuces, herbs, vegetables, tomatoes and more without dirt, weed or mess. This stainless steel AeroGarden Pro 100 uses computerized Adaptive Growth Intelligence to continuously monitor plant growth and instantly adjust nutrients, light cycle and water flow to give plants what’s needed at each stage of growth. It’s super easy because the LCD reminds when to add water, nutrients or replace bulbs.

Vuzix iWear Glasses for iPod: An ultimate luxury gadget gift for the traveler with a video iPod (or other video output device). Simply plug in these Vuzix iWear glasses and you have a private, virtual 62″ movie theater anytime, anywhere. These even work with any video-output devices like DVD players, games, etc. The two reviews on the site both say they are worth the price. One of the best parts, I think, is the 5 hours of continuous use on each charge of the battery. Even though this is usually exaggerated from actual real world usage you’ll most likely get through a 3 hour Lord of the Rings movie with no problems.

USB Microscope: Get the kids to do something other than play games on the computer with a fun learning tool powered by USB and made easy to use with Windows. You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy the awesome fun you’ll have with an easy to use 200x zoom microscope by your side. Inspect a leaf under the microscope, zoom in on paper money to find the super fine details, you’ll start having so much fun with taking photos and video, you’ll forget you’re learning! Be sure to check out the other models with higher resolution images and video.

DIY Neon Sign Kit: The most unique gift you can give is one of customization. With the snap together modular design you can customize your message anytime. Whether it’s a message of warmth and hope, or a warning sign to your neighbors nobody is going to miss what is being said in bright blue neon lights. There are even settings to make it blink or stay static. This is a great gift even for those who don’t have much to say, as I’m sure they’ll find something surprising to say when they have a DIY neon sign kit in front of them.

The iPod Karaoke Microphone: Lots of people have iPods, and most people like to sing along to their favorite songs. This device allows you to sing along with your favorite songs because it has a built-in FM transmitter that plays the iPod’s songs through your home stereo system. The device isolates and mutes the vocal track of the original song, so that you can replace it with your voice via the microphone.

Posted by Sean in Gadgets on December 21, 2007
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It’s coming down to the wire to be able to get gifts to their place before the 25th, but thankfully online stores are helping out with free upgraded shipping, free shipping, and more coupons. Check out these stores for their gift guides and shipping deals.

Gaiam – FREE 2 Day Shipping on Any In-Stock Order with Coupon Code: FEDEX13. Offer only Valid Wednesday Dec 19th – expires Thursday, Dec 20th at 10:00 a.m. EST.

LittleMissMatched -10% off orders through December 24th with Coupon Code: AFHOL10. Very cute items with emphasis on miss matched pajamas, socks, and more!

Brookstone – View Brookstone’s top Holiday gifts. Get 50% off the In-Out Blanket in a Bag – a $39.95 value, now only $19.99!

Buy Costumes – Get 25% OFF Christmas items (costumes, party supplies, decor, etc.) with the special Coupon Code: holi25.

The Succulent Wife – Just increased their last minute savings coupon to 15% OFF! Coupon Code: Merry15. Offer is valid now through 12/21. They have great gift ideas and lots of handmade artisan goods for those with an eco-friendly gift giving agenda.

Posted by Sean in Sale on December 19, 2007
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Just last night I stood impatiently at the local Target Photo Center to get my digital photo prints and I asked myself “Why aren’t I at home in my comfortable pajamas doing this online? It’s probably cheaper too.” Guess what? It is cheaper, plus if this is your first time ordering, with the right timing, you can get your first 10-20 prints free.

If you’re like us you accumulate some good pictures from your handy digital camera throughout the year. Well now half the work of sending out photos, or creating some quick and easy gifts is already done. With just a handful of pictures you can create a 2008 calendar (the recipient would have to remember your birthday), photo books (great for long distance relatives), mugs, stationary, mouse pads, puzzles, and more. You know, the classic customizable products. All this can be done in a few minutes, resulting in quality gifts getting shipped directly to your gift recipient and you never had to leave the house. Double Gift Score!

Snapfish – Has some great gift options at low prices. They claim to be #1 and you get 20 free prints when you first sign up. FREE upgrade to Expedited Shipping at Snapfish! Select standard shipping upon checkout. (free upgrade valid 12/18 only)

SmugMug.com – More focused on photo sharing, and organizing, but has just as many options to print photos to gifts. This is a site for the photographer, amateur or pro, it’s a definite crowd pleaser.

Wallhogs – These guys are for your bigger wall covering posters, canvas prints, and vinyl. I’m talking up to 7 feet long removable vinyl wall decorations from one of your awesome photos! That’s a gift!

Posted by Sean in Unique on December 17, 2007
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Gadgets are a part of daily life for pretty much everybody in 2007, so gadget gifts aren’t just for computer nerds anymore! We’ve rounded up some great tech gift ideas for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for a business professional, social network butterfly, or any gadget-lover in-between, keep reading for some retail inspiration.

6 Device Electronics Charger: This little beauty is going to simplify a lot of lives. It’s six tentacles contain “six adapters that fit most portable devices, allowing an entire briefcase-full of electronic office tools to be fully powered in an average of two hours”. Comes with a regular and car charger so that you can also power up on the go.

Roomba 500 Series Robot Vacuum: It’s December 2007, and jet packs are still not available yet. The next best thing would definitely be the cleaning robots available from iRobot. Not only is the new 500 series vastly improved from earlier models, but there are also robots that mop your floors, vacuum up your shop, and clean your gutters. Also, with no AI chip* there’s no threat of your Roomba leading an electronic revolt. *(You’ll need iRobot Create developers kit for that)

Chaotic-Artistic Gadget Organizer: Shopping for an oxymoron? This beautiful tangle of wires is named Harry, and he is as unique and tech savvy as his future owner. Inside his guts you can have fun nestling not just gadgets, but keys, wallets, and whatever else you’re likely to throw on the table as soon as you get home.

DIY Laptop Sleeve/Bag: The laptop bags that we featured in our Indie Christmas part 1 post were amazing, but sometimes totally custom is the way to go. Let your laptop lover design every detail of their bag with the Skooba customizable sleeve that also cleverly transforms into a handled bag.

Bluetooth Rear View Mirror: Between cell phone laws and sloppy drivers, Bluetooth devices continue to prove themselves invaluable for traveling. The only question is, which will make you look crazier: talking to an earbud or talking to your rearview mirror?

USB Podcast Studio Kit: Blogging is so 2006. All the cool kids (and pretty much everyone else) know that podcasting is where its at. With this kit, give your nouveau podcaster “everything needed for crystal clear audio recording and editing”, packed up all cool into an aluminum briefcase.

Check back in a couple days for some last minute gift ideas in our Gadget Gift Roundup Part 2.

Posted by Lauren in Gadgets,Nerd on
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We planned on doing another gift guide this year: something similar to last year’s Green gift Guide. However, the new site design just ended up taking forever to finish and now we don’t have the energy to start another big project. What we’re going to do instead is blog like crazy about our personal favorite gift ideas.

Have you pledged to Buy Handmade this year? Buying Handmade makes for better gift-giving, it’s better for people, and better for the environment. (The BH crew elaborate on these points nicely.) As the purveyor of all things handmade, here come our top picks from a few choice Etsy categories.

Clockwise from top left: Custom Laptop Bag: any size, and print from BlueTwirls, Artist Tote from SuperbKitsch, Echino Wolf Full Size Messenger Bag
You have a LAPTOP; Yay! Now you need something to keep it safe, portable, and stylish. It’s hard to pick a favorite from this bunch, but I sure appreciate all the pockets inside the Artist Tote. And with a name like that, I’m already feeling tempted to carry around some colored pencils. Be sure to look at close-up product shots because these are all made with amazing attention to detail.


Clockwise from left: Four Eyes No. 1 from Lisa Brodar, Fergie plush toy, Chandrea Collection no.46 art doll by Chad Frick. Now these STUFFED CREATURES have some personality. I especially like the geeky cute glasses on plush Four Eyes.


Clockwise from top left: Vintage Shadowbox Art from theArtCreations, Cupcake System print by Kelly Newcomer, 3 painted robot floppy disks by gammaraybots
There is ART for everyone on Etsy. Like lots of other items, the shadowbox and disks are made from recycled materials, making them an even better choice.

Posted by Lauren in Unique on December 14, 2007
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Hey everyone, it’s finally here: our new website design! The blog looks the same, but the rest of the site? Totally redesigned, all new gift ideas. If you haven’t seen it already, check it out! (Here’s a “before” shot for comparison.) After our Halloween season host duties were done at 365 Halloween, we started working behind the scenes here, which is why things have been a little slow since October. We had hoped to get the site launched by December 1st, but we kept programming more features and adding more products and coupon codes until, oops, December 12th! Anyway, please let us know what you think and if you run into any snags. We still have a lot of old content to migrate so some of the pages will still have the old design, but otherwise everything should be working smoothly.

Now that we’re (mostly) finished with that task, we’ll be posting a lot of new holiday gift ideas and green holiday tips, so come be sure to come back daily or subscribe to our RSS feed.

Posted by Lauren in Surprises on December 13, 2007
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