Here's some stuff Top Ten Gifts has liked. To find more cool stuff, check out Explore »

Since valentines day is coming up, what better gift to get your man then a new Xbox game. Oh wait...the gift is for yourself? Perfect. Well, the games below can be summed up in a few words: sports, mature, violence, and downright intensity.

Xbox 360 Rock Band 2 Special Edition 1
Xbox 360 Rock Band 2 Special Edition
If you think you're a rock star and got your rock moves, prove it. Rock Band 2 is a great party game and even works for families (if the kids aren't too young). Enjoy rockin out on the drums, jammin on the guitars, and belting it out on the mic!
Fallout 3 2
Fallout 3
So it finally happened. The world is down to a few survivors who brave radiation and mutants after nuclear fallout. With amazing graphics, this game sucks you in. Again, not a kid game as there are several adult situations.
FIFA Soccer 09 3
FIFA Soccer 09
FIFA 09 by EA Sports is a great sports game. Many bells and whistles have been added such as live updates to keep your player's stats modeling real life, online collaboration with friends, and custom tactics to develop yourself. Get it now for $56.99.
Gears of War 2 4
Gears of War 2
Chainsaw gun...enough said. Well, perhaps not enough said. Excellent graphics, gripping story, a great co-op mode, great gameplay.
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution 5
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution
Civilization has always been a game with a core following. The latest iteration brought the game to consoles everywhere and the addiction continues. Check out the demo, get hooked, then buy the game. Or, just jump to step three and get the game for $36.99.
Fable II 6
Fable II
Fable 2 is the much anticipated sequel which has sold like wildfire. An epic story that picks up 500 years after the first game, explore and play as you please with an ample amount of freedom. Each choice you make changes the outcome of the game.
Left 4 Dead 7
Left 4 Dead
Always wanted to be a zombie? Well now you can. Battle your way through humans, or be human and fight your way past zombies in four massive campaigns. Multiplayer supports up to 8 also.
NHL 09 8
NHL 09
Feeling rough and tumble? It must be time to check people into the boards. So grab your hockey stick, some skates, and an xbox controller and get in the game for $56.99.
Dead Space 9
Dead Space
Aliens, blood, and telekinesis. What's not to like? Get locked into this action game and story. $56.99.
Grand Theft Auto IV 10
Grand Theft Auto IV
What list would be complete without GTA? As with many other games out now, this one isn't appropriate for children. But how many games can you car jack someone, hit a gentleman's club, go bowling, and participate in several other activities? $49.79 for hours of "things you shouldn't do."

 


Well, I must admit that I'm biased to LCD TVs over Plasma. The reasoning could go well beyond a gift recommendation, so I won't dive into it. Perhaps the best bit of news is that nearly all these TVs are on sale with decent size discounts. The newest deal seems to be the 120Hz LCDs. 120Hz promises a clearer picture with less pixelation. I have listed some that are not 120Hz since they are well priced and still solid. Oh, whatever you get, make sure it's 1080p.

LG 42LG70 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 1
LG 42LG70 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Normally $1,699, this clean-looking, highly-reviewed set is marked down to $1,277.
Sharp Aquos LC42D85U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 2
Sharp Aquos LC42D85U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
The AQUOS models for Sharp are doing extremely well in the market. Several reviews suggest their customer service is better than most and people enjoy the quality of the AQUOS line. Normally $1,499, on sale for an incredible $1,086.
Toshiba REGZA Cinema Series 42XV545U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 3
Toshiba REGZA Cinema Series 42XV545U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Once again, a quality 120Hz set that is normally $1,499 is on sale for $1,208.
Sony Bravia V-Series KDL-42V4100 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 4
Sony Bravia V-Series KDL-42V4100 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Normally $1,499, the KDL is on sale for $1,049 making this TV one of the better deals out there.
Philips 42PFL7403D/27 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 5
Philips 42PFL7403D/27 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Philips makes the top five with this TV. Normally $1,299, get this TV for $1,077 now.
LG 42LBX - 42" LCD TV - 120Hz - widescreen - 1080p (FullHD) - HDTV 1080p - glossy black 6
LG 42LBX - 42" LCD TV - 120Hz - widescreen - 1080p (FullHD) - HDTV 1080p - glossy black
For some crazy reason, this TV is marked at 50%! Normally $2,099, you can snag up this set right now for $999!
Toshiba REGZA 42RV530U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 7
Toshiba REGZA 42RV530U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Another nice Toshiba, this one is normally $1,199 but available now for $982. Keep in mind, this is not a 120Hz set.
Sharp Aquos LC42D64U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 8
Sharp Aquos LC42D64U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Although not a 120Hz TV, the AQUOS line has had great reviews. Last week, this set was significantly cheaper. Now, however, it is listed at $1,844.
LG 42LG60 42-Inch 1080p 120hz LCD HDTV, Gloss Piano Black with Scarlet Red 9
LG 42LG60 42-Inch 1080p 120hz LCD HDTV, Gloss Piano Black with Scarlet Red
For some reason, this set has two pricing breaks. Normally listed for $1,999, the first price break is to $1,699. But right now, this set is listed $1,299!
Toshiba REGZA 42XV540U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 10
Toshiba REGZA 42XV540U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Normally $1,399 but now listed at $1,199

Well, that's the list. There are others, but I tried to keep in and around the $1000 mark for TVs. If you are into further research, you can check on the Contrast and try to get that number up as much as possible. For example, 25,000 : 1.


Wall-E (Widescreen Single-Disc Edition) 1
Wall-E (Widescreen Single-Disc Edition)
My favorite thing about this movie is how my two year old son walks around saying "Waaaall-E." Well worth the $13.90 for me.
Kung Fu Panda  (Widescreen Edition) 2
Kung Fu Panda (Widescreen Edition)
You are the Dragon Master! This movie is great for the whole family (do note that it is PG). $14.99 for a kung-fu time.
Iron Man (Single-Disc Edition) 3
Iron Man (Single-Disc Edition)
Iron Man was shockingly good. Robert Downey Jr. made Tony Stark a fun character in a great movie. $13.99.
The Dark Knight (Full-Screen Single-Disc Edition) 4
The Dark Knight (Full-Screen Single-Disc Edition)
If you like action movies at all, buy this one. Taking off where Batman Begins, uh...ends, The Dark Knight is superb and Heath Ledger played an outstanding Joker. He will be difficult to replace. $15.99
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian 5
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
If your kids are a fan of C.S. Lewis and his Chronicles of Narnia series, they will love this one. The movie deviates slightly from the original story, but it is still a quality movie. $14.99 to bring the Lion to life.
3:10 to Yuma (Widescreen Edition) 6
3:10 to Yuma (Widescreen Edition)
Can a movie that costs $9.49 make Russell Crowe a cowboy? Well, he already was a Gladiator and does pull off a good cowboy.
Transformers (Two-Disc Special Edition + BD Live) [Blu-ray] 7
Transformers (Two-Disc Special Edition + BD Live) [Blu-ray]
Must...defeat...Megatron! Transformers is a fun and entertaining show. I listed the Blu-ray version here because you will want that theater clarity on this rollercoaster ride. $19.99 for Blu-ray, $13.49 for the normal DVD.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (Single Disc) 8
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (Single Disc)
In the most recent release of the Indiana Jones series, Harrison Ford is at it again. Braving all sorts of challenges, Indy races to find the crystal skull before the Russians. Granted this movie lacked the spark of the original three (more specifically one and three), it is still a fun ride and rounds out the collection of the series. $13.99.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (Widescreen Edition) 9
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (Widescreen Edition)
I don't understand. What happened after Episode II but before Episode III? Well, this animated film kicks off the TV series to show exactly that. If you have toy lightsabers in your house, like me, you had better buy this also. $13.99.
Tropic Thunder (Unrated Director's Cut) 10
Tropic Thunder (Unrated Director's Cut)
Okay, it is funny. However, how do I say this...it will offend you. So go on and laugh. Laugh and be offended because you can. $22.95

There it is. A list of movies for just about anyone. So after the snow falls, which it has here, buy some of these to keep you entertained and warm.


If you have a swimmer in your life, you know that there's a variety of accoutrement they need to perform their best. Here's a top ten list of gifts for your favorite swimmer!

Speedo Silicone Stretch Fit Cap 1
Speedo Silicone Stretch Fit Cap
Let's start with the essentials: a quality swim cap. Elite swimmers spend a LOT of time in the water; the last thing they need is a cheap swim cap that tears after a couple uses. Pick up a couple of these quality caps from Speedo - it never hurts to have a spare on hand!
Fastskin II Custom Color Record Breaker 2
Fastskin II Custom Color Record Breaker
Get this great competition suit for your favorite female swimmer. She'll not only swim fast, she'll look fantastic while she's out there kicking butt!
Speedo FS-PRO Jammer 3
Speedo FS-PRO Jammer
Let's not forget about your favorite male swimmer! Check out this great jammer from Speedo. You want your swimmer swimming his fastest on competition day, right? You want him to look great while he's doing it, right? Here's the ticket!
Speedo Vanquisher Swim Goggle - Clear 4
Speedo Vanquisher Swim Goggle - Clear
Ask any swim mom - your swimmer can never have too many goggles. If they've got three spare sets in the swim bag, they MIGHT be OK. (Of course, you should technically hold on to those spare sets yourself or they'll ALL get lost, but you catch my drift.) These clear Vanquishers are great for indoor short course season.
Speedo Vanquisher Plus Mirrored Swim Goggle - Gold 5
Speedo Vanquisher Plus Mirrored Swim Goggle - Gold
Same song, second verse. Only this time, pick up the mirrored Vanquishers from Speedo for outdoor long course season.
The Sammy Towel 6
The Sammy Towel
Forget the 20 sq foot beach towel - your favorite swimmer needs a Sammy! This compact, high-tech shammy is the perfect low-price gift for your favorite swimmer!
Speedo Aqua Fit Training Swim Gloves 7
Speedo Aqua Fit Training Swim Gloves
Help your favorite swimmer improve their strength and conditioning using these training gloves from Speedo. The gloves' webbed fingers also help your swimmer propel themselves through the water, creating essential muscle memory for powering through the water.
FINIS Zoomers Fins 8
FINIS Zoomers Fins
Here's another great practice tool. Strap a set of Zoomers on your favorite swimmer and she'll start building her strength and propulsion. Make sure you buy the right color for your swimmer - for instance, the Reds are for those with a stronger kick and flexible feet and ankles.
Waterproof Housing for iPod 9
Waterproof Housing for iPod
If your swimmer is fortunate enough to be in two-a-day practices or training for distance, you know that they spend hours in the water. Help them pass the time by gifting this great waterproof iPod case. You'll also need a set of headphones created for water use - see gift #10.
H2O Audio H3 Waterproof Headphones 10
H2O Audio H3 Waterproof Headphones
If your swimmer likes to listen to music while working out, they'll need a good set of headphones designed for use in the water. This set from H2O Audio work great - and look good, too!

From competition to practice, the variety of gifts to consider for your favorite swimmer is extensive. I hope this list gives you a few great ideas for gifts that are both functional and stylish.

Happy shopping!

Filed under: accessories, amazon, competition, gifts, giving, iPod accessories, swim goggles, swim suits, Swimming, training aids, water

It's tough to keep up with the music devices these days. If you're giving the wonderful gift of music, this list outlines the best modern options for music players available on the market.

Zune 8 GB Video MP3 Player 1
Zune 8 GB Video MP3 Player
This slim 8 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner. At around $130, it's a good entry-level MP3 player.
Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player 2
Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player
The Zune 120 offers a HUGE capacity to hold pretty much any marvelous music collection and a bunch of movies at the same time. The glass screen makes for a pleasant watching experience as well! It's currently available for just over 200 bucks.
Apple iPod nano 16 GB Blue 3
Apple iPod nano 16 GB Blue
The iPod nano might be one of the most elegant small music players available. With Apple's unique interface, it's easy and fun to use. It's also compatible with sports packages that make for a great workout!
Apple iPod touch 16 GB 4
Apple iPod touch 16 GB
An iPod touch is great for someone into gadgets. Not only does it support killer audio and video, but it allows you to connect wirelessly to the Apple App Store and load up tons of games. A price of around $270 isn't bad considering all the things you can do with this iPod.
Apple iPod classic 120 GB Silver 5
Apple iPod classic 120 GB Silver
This list wouldn't be complete without the latest iPod classic. Large storage capacity, music and videos are both compatible, and at about $200, you can't go wrong.
Apple iPod shuffle 1 GB Bright Green 6
Apple iPod shuffle 1 GB Bright Green
For people who don't like to mess with the on-screen options, an iPod shuffle is perfect. They're inexpensive, tiny and they look pretty cool, too!
Creative Zen 8 GB Portable Media Player 7
Creative Zen 8 GB Portable Media Player
Creative has been a player in the music industry for quite some time, so they've really perfected the ZEN device. It handles the music and video, but at a lower price than Apple's devices.
SanDisk Sansa Shaker 1 GB MP3 Player 8
SanDisk Sansa Shaker 1 GB MP3 Player
If you're looking for an inexpensive option to have music on-the-go, the SanDisk Sansa is your answer. They're in the $30 range and have a fun, new design. Available in multiple colors.
Skull Candy MacGyver MP3 Player Watch 9
Skull Candy MacGyver MP3 Player Watch
Any watch-wearing music lover would love to wear around an MP3 watch, but what makes this so wonderful is that it looks like a normal watch! It's not bulky like earlier generations and it charges via a USB device, just like iPods and Zunes. It runs about $90.
Timex MP3 Stereo CD Alarm Clock Radio w/ Digital Tuning 10
Timex MP3 Stereo CD Alarm Clock Radio w/ Digital Tuning
If you're looking for a non-portable device to have music in the office, bedroom, kitchen (wherever, really), then an MP3 CD-Player is perfect. Just burn your MP3s to a CD and toss it in. Plus, it's under $50.

With the price ranges available today, it's not difficult to find a perfect music player for anybody. Any one of these players makes a perfect gift for the occassion.

Happy Shopping!

Filed under: amazon, gifts, giving, mp3, music, top ten, video

Picking the perfect gift for a graphic designer can be excruciatingly difficult, because chances are they are way ahead of you in the graphic design world. I've selected the top 10 magazine subscriptions that will bring the designer in your life happiness year-round!

print ($37) 1
print ($37)
Print magazine will bring you emerging trends in the graphic design world. It ships 6 issues a year and costs more than a traditional magazine, but the high-quality imagery and articles make it worthwhile.
I.D. ($30) 2
I.D. ($30)
I.D. (International Design) ships 8 issues a year and is just the magazine to keep design enthusiasts up-to-date in the global economy. It touches on nearly all aspects of the design world.
Communication Arts ($53) 3
Communication Arts ($53)
Communication Arts is a bit more expensive than your average design magazine (at $53/year for 6 issues), but focuses on the detail-rich "visual communication" area of graphic design. Definitely perfect for a higher-end magazine gift.
How ($30) 4
How ($30)
How presents a mix of business tips, technology tips, whys & hows of noteworthy projects and details on professionals who have significant influence in the design world.
iCreate ($132) 5
iCreate ($132)
If you're looking for the perfect Mac user design gift, this one's a hit. iCreate offers essential tips and knowledge for the graphic designer that uses a Mac (which happens to be the majority!).
Dynamic Graphics ($33) 6
Dynamic Graphics ($33)
If your graphic designer uses a PC or a Mac, this is a great magazine choice. It covers both platforms with information on graphic design and tips in Photoshop and other leading graphic software.
Step Inside Design ($42) 7
Step Inside Design ($42)
Step brings insightful essays and articles on the most relevant designer questions every other month. A great gift for someone who loves design and reading.
Digital Graphics Magazine ($24) 8
Digital Graphics Magazine ($24)
Digital Graphics ships monthly with a focus on the large-print design world. Large-format design is a hot trend right now, including vehicles, walls, and many more creative mediums.
Photoshop Creative ($132) 9
Photoshop Creative ($132)
Photoshop is the de facto software for graphic designers. There are countless creations that can be made within the Photoshop software, and keeping up on new techniques is extremely difficult. Step up with Photoshop Creative, and make keeping up with Photoshop a breeze.
Interior Design ($70) 10
Interior Design ($70)
Packed with both residential and commercial interior tips, Interior Design provides inspiring information for interior designer enthusiasts.

If you're having a tough time finding the perfect gift for a designer, a subscription from this list should do the job. Let someone else give the "cheesy gift" this year!

Happy shopping!

Filed under: gifts, giving, Graphic Design, magazines, subscriptions, top ten

If you have a photographer in your life, you already know that there's an almost endless array of gadgets and tools that are useful - nay, required - to be a photographer. Unfortunately, some of those tools are quite expensive. If you're on a budget, here's a list of great photography items you can buy that will be much appreciated without breaking the bank.

WhiBal Ref Card 1 WhiBal White Balance Reference Card - Pocket Kit
Ask any photographer: there's nothing worse than spending hours after a shoot tweaking the white balance of photos to get the color balance just right. RawWorkflow's WhiBal card makes this step a snap. Just include the card in one of your photos and color balancing (setting the grey, white, and black points) can be done with just a few clicks. At $29 and change, this one's a real bargain when it comes to time-savings. If your favorite photographer shoots in RAW (just ask them), they'll love you for this one.
Understanding Exposure 2 Understanding Exposure: How to Shoot Great Photographs with a Film or Digital Camera
Bryan Peterson's classic is a must-read for all photographers - especially those who are ready to make the transition from the taker of the casual snapshot to something greater. This book had an enormous impact on my own photography. Understanding Exposure taught me how stopping down impacts sharpness throughout the depth of field - something that has helped me significantly improve my landscape photography. Ask around to find out if your friend/significant other already has this book on his or her shelf. If the answer is no - buy it NOW! It's that good.
Nikon Microfiber Cleaning Cloth 3 Nikon 8072 Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
Now here's an inexpensive item that's worth its weight in gold. This slick little unit combines a microfiber lens cloth with a small carrying case to give you one nicely portable lens cleaning unit. At less than 7 bones, you'll put a smile on the face of your favorite photographer when they find this stuffer in their stocking. I just lost mine at a photo shoot last week - I'm dropping not-so-subtle hints that I hope to find another one in Santy's bag this year...
Lumiquest Diffuser 4 Lumiquest Soft Screen, a Diffusion Sheet for On-Camera Pop-up Flashes
If you've used your camera's on-board flash and been dissatisfied when your subjects came out looking like red-eyed demon spawn, you may want to consider this product. Sure, most post-processing packages now have slick options for fixing red-eye, but why go through the hassle if you can avoid it in the first place? This little contraption attaches to the camera in front of the pop-up flash and disperses the light to limit harsh shadows. It's no substitute for an external flash, but it's also less than 12 bucks. Check it out!
Lightroom 2 Book for Digital Photographers 5 The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)
If your favorite photographer shoots a lot of images, chances are she's already using Adobe Lightroom. Adobe released a significant enhancement when they released version 2 in 2008. To get up to speed on this version, consider gifting this great book by Scott Kelby. Kelby has a well-deserved reputation as a great Photoshop and Lightroom instructor. You'll find the same presentation style he's famous for in his videos and conferences coming through in his instructional books. Definitely a great reference for getting your head around the way Lightroom thinks you should approach workflow.
Wireless Remote 6 Wireless remote
Once your favorite photographer starts using a tripod to improve his photography, he'll wish he had a wireless remote control to trigger the shutter without having to use the timer. Remotes come in especially handy when the photographer wants to be included in the photo for group shots or self-portraits - no more sprinting from behind the camera to make it into the frame before the timer goes off! You''ll need to do some sly investigation to figure out which camera model your friend owns and then buy the right remote for his Olympus, Nikon, or Canon.
Joby Gorillapod 7 Joby Gorillapod Flexible Tripod
Any photographer will tell you that a tripod is almost essential to take a great landscape shot. In the next breath, that same photographer will tell you how much she hates shooting with a tripod. They're big, they're bulky, they're awkward. And if they're not those things, they're darn expensive. That's the genius of the Joby Gorillapod. For less than $25, you can outfit your favorite photographer with a mini-tripod with an attitude. Just wrap its flexible feet around a tree branch, fence post, or car mirror and you've got a platform for your camera that's significantly more stable than any other mini-tripod available. And when finished, your friend can easily slip it into her camera bag until she needs it for the next shoot. Nice! Note: If your friend owns a digital SLR, you'll want to opt for the beefier (and slightly more expensive) Joby GP2-E1EN Gorillapod Flexible Tripod for Digital SLR Cameras.
Memory Card 8 Extra memory cards
Whether your friend's camera takes SD, Compact Flash, or XD cards, having too many memory cards is sort of like being too rich or too good-looking - there is no such thing! Prices for memory cards have plummeted - load up on these stocking stuffers while the getting's good!
Crumpler Photo Bag 9 Crumpler Red Bundle Medium Basic Photo Shoulder Bag
For the budding photographer still using a convenient point-and-shoot, nothing says 'style' quite like a Crumpler photo bag. This one's less than $25 but still has that classy Crumpler look. Nice!
CARL Rotary Trimmer 10 CARL Bidex Professional Rotary Trimmer, 18" Cut
Whether your favorite photographer is printing prints at home or having them printed at a professional photo lab, chances are she'll need to trim those prints before dry-mounting or framing them. While a 50" stand-mounted rotary trimmer is probably out of your price range this Christmas, this CARL 18" rotary trimmer could be just the ticket for those 16x20 or 13x19 prints your friend is likely printing all the time. Help your friend banish that Exacto knife for good when she steps up to the convenience and precision of a quality rotary trimmer. 

This list just scratches the surface. If you're buying for a photographer this year, you're in luck - there's no shortage of great stuff to buy for the camera enthusiast. Amazon.com has a huge selection of items for the diigtal photographer - be sure to check them out if you don't find anything to your liking on this list.

Happy shopping!

Filed under: accessories, amazon, gifts, giving, photographer, photography, shopping, top ten

As technology growth continues to explode, you may find that you or people you know have been left in the dust.  No worries, I've put together a list of the top 10 last generation electronics that still rock, so you can find the perfect gifts for others (and yourself).  Plus, you'll be keeping up with technology and not breaking the bank to do so!

iPod nano 1 iPod nano 3rd gen ($125)
Last year's model? Uh huh.  Tiny, powerful, and still able to rock out like this year's iPod?  You betcha!  Save some cash this year and pick up the last gen model of the iPod nano!
Shure e2c earbuds 2 Shure E2c Sound Isolating Earphones ($60)
Available since 2003 (yes, ages ago), these are still some of the highest-rated, top-selling earbuds on the market.  People with iPods, Zunes and other music players often trade in their stock-standard headphones for a pair of premium buds, so pick up a set for your music aficionados.
TomTom GPS 3 TomTom Third Edition Portable GPS Automobile Navigator ($80)
Wow, these have come down in price.  It seems like just yesterday they were like $300-400 for the average model!  Well, they still are on the costly side, but you can pick up a certified-remanufactured version of the TomTom 3rd edition for just 80 bucks.  This makes a great gift, especially for those who live in metropolitan areas.
USB flash drive 4 USB flash drive ($8, $16)
What do students, office workers, housewives, and your dentist all have in common?  They use a computer, and they likely have documents, spreadsheets, music and movies that need to be shared between computers and prices on these have dropped so much it's crazy!  A modest 4GB model will run about $8, while you can get a beefier 8GB model for $16.  If you're not sure, get the 8GB.
Xbox 360 5 Xbox 360 Pro Holiday Bundle 2008 ($300 or less)
This system has been out for a while and is not going to be outdated anytime soon.  This premium edition is about $300 and comes with all sorts of extras, but if you'd like to save some mulah, look at the more barebone consoles available.
Nintendo Wii 6 Nintendo Wii ($280)
Looking for some interactive family fun?  Look no further than the Wii, which was released a couple years ago and is still difficult to track down.  Punch your phone number into Amazon, and they'll tell you when one is available for purchase.  They're still developing many fun add-ons, like Wii Fit, and Wii Music that keep this device up-to-date.
Amazon Kindle Book Reader 7 Amazon Kindle ($360)
Okay, last one on the pricy side of the fence.  The Kindle has been wildly successful in the past and Amazon recently dropped the cost by $40.  Book, magazine, newspaper, and blog readers alike use the Kindle to read their daily literature, so it makes a perfect high-end gift for any reader.
Memory Card 8 Memory Card ($9)Memory Card ($9)
These multi-use cards were in the same boat as USB drives a couple years ago; they were pricey and technology was making them outdated quickly.  Memory cards have slowed down now and you can get a 4GB card that holds thousands of photos on most digital cameras for just 9 bucks.  If this is for someone with a digital SLR camera (the non-point and shoot kind), go for the 16GB card - it'll be perfect.
Memory Card 9 Logitech ClearChat Comfort USB Headset ($30)
Headsets are now an essential for Internet users everywhere, not only as gaming accessories, but as personal and business communication devices as well.  This headset is top-quality at a modest price.  Since it is a USB device, it connects and sets up by just plugging it in.
Amazon MP3 10 MP3s ($0.99)
The most popular and widely accepted format of music on computers is MP3.  Pick up an album or a bunch of songs for someone at just 99 cents apiece.  This would also go very well with a USB key, Memory Card, or iPod nano, since you can load great songs onto the device before giving it as a gift.  

Whether you're looking for one perfect gift or maybe a stocking stuffer, these gifts are sure to please.  At the current prices, you're getting great technology at a great price.

Happy shopping!

Filed under: accessories, amazon, bargains, electronics, gifts, giving, shopping, top ten

Being a runner myself, I often ponder what it would be like to have others support my cause by buying me gifts! Well, if the runner in your life is like me, here are some snazzy options available now.

Garmin Forerunner 305 1 Garmin Forerunner 305 with Heart Rate Monitor ($169.97 was $299.99)
Although a newer watch exists, this one seems to be quite popular. I have one and love it. Oh, not to mention the price has dropped A LOT.
Lock Laces 2 Lock Laces ($4.97)
Tired of those dreaded untied shoes? Although designed for triathlons, these lace locks work great for every day running as well.
Nike Plus 3 Apple Nike + iPod Sport Kit for iPod nano ($37.99)
For the price, it's difficult to beat a pace/music combo that keeps you motivated during your run. Not to mention you can compete against your friends virtually using nikeplus.com!
Reflective Vest 4 Nathan Streak Reflective Vest ($21.29)
If you run in the evening or early morning, it's best to be seen. Make sure you get all your running in without unnecessary hospital visits. This vest will not get in your way and could keep you from some serious misfortune.
Running Socks 5 New Balance Unisex CoolMax Mesh No Show 2-pack Socks ($11.00)
Socks you ask? Well, let me just say that happy feet make a happy runner. Once you try form-fitting running socks, you will toss aside your old cotton socks for good.
Attachable Pocket 6 Nathan Small Attachable Padded Accessory Pocket ($9.41)
When you are out for a long run or in a large race, it's difficult to be without your phone or a small bit of cash. This attachable pocket can hold items securely. Combine it with a running belt, and away you go!
BodyGlide Stick 7 BodyGlide Anti-Chafing Stick ($7.95 to $14.50)
And now we are down to the less glorious side of running...the chafe. Sadly, it happens. Luckily, there are products like this out there to avoid the pain. Vaseline or petroleum jelly actually clogs pores, but BodyGlide doesn't. Use it to prevent blisters, chafing, or dry skin.
Sony Headphones 8 Sony Mdr-As20J Active Style Headphones / Earbuds ($15.26)
Many times, earbuds can and do fall out while running. The soft loop provides a comfortable fit and frees you from worrying about drop offs. Sweat and weather resistance makes these headphones good for running.
Brooks Running Gloves 9 Brooks Vapor-Dry Gloves ($27.99)
This unisex semi-fitted glove will whisk moisture away from your hands, ensuring warm, dry comfort. The finger grips allow you to still work with small items. The back of the glove is designed to wipe sweat off your brow but still keep the water off your hands. Nice!
Pone Hat 10 Ponytail Hat ($19.99)
If you have hair to keep in check, ponytail hats by Pone are the way to go. Microfleece material keeps the heat in and the moisture out. Winter running made easy for your melon!

There are plenty of other gift ideas for runners, but this list is a great start to help you come up with ideas for the runner in your life. Or, if you are like me, you can just buy this stuff for yourself! So now that you are prepared for the winter by having warm clothing, music for your ears, a GPS or pace notifier, BodyGlide, and safety gear, get running!

Happy shopping!

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