Well it’s December and that means that you’re probably doing some kind of holiday thing. I prefer to call it Christmahanakwanzika as it covers the majority of the population. You can call it what you want. And of course you may think you know what holiday I celebrate, as it encompasses a prophecy of one that would be born to a virgin and accomplish great things and all that; but there aren’t any lightsabers in the Bible so I will of course be celebrating Anakin Skywalker’s birthday.
So many blogs do holiday gift guides that I thought I might as well do one too. Obviously, my list would be tailored towards people that have similar interests as me, but I’m sure you can either find something for yourself on here or for someone you know. So here goes the Weakonomics Holiday Gift Guide:
Giftcard to Favorite Restaurant: You simply can’t go wrong here. I love the Olive Garden and a fondue place back in the town where The Sheconomist and I went to school. A giftcard to either would simply be lovely. This one is especially good for young couples who are too cheap to go out for a nice meal on their own.
Freehands Gloves: Freehands makes gloves with a nifty feature. The index and thump portions can be folded back to allow better use of your dexterity. They really come in handy for iPhone users (like myself, The Sheconomist, and my parents) but you can use them for anything. These, in wool, are on my personal wishlist.
GPS Navigation: Get any cheap Tom Tom or Garmin. They’re dirt cheap and pay for themselves in one trip. They aren’t perfect, but they are much better than a map or printed directions.
GPS Mat: If you’ve ever been in a car with a GPS then you’ve seen the suction sup marks left behind on the window. Or perhaps, like me, your GPS likes to drop off the windshield in the middle of changing lanes on a busy interstate. No matter, if you own a GPS, get a GPS mat. They sit on the dashboard and are coated in a high-friction material to keep it from sliding. I recommend this one from Amazon, as it’s less than $15 and the same thing sells at Best Buy for north of $40.
Any Cell Phone With Google Maps and GPS: Yes I’m big on GPS, and no this isn’t the same thing as a GPS navigation device. The iPhone, as well as many other phones like the Droid on Verizon, have Google Maps with GPS. Some of them also have turn-by-turn directions but I don’t want to use my phone like that. This comes in handy for when you’re walking around on foot. Recently, The Sheconomist and I explored some museums in DC and since we were hoofing it I used my phone to find the places, and places to eat. It was invaluable.
Superfreakonomics: The guys that first brought you Freakonomics are back with a new book. I’ve been reading it recently and for anyone that enjoyed the first book, you need to get them this one as well. By the way, if you’re a big fan of the authors, the will send you an autographed sticker to put in the book. I’ve got one and this isn’t some printed crap, they actually sign the stickers!
Something of the Month Club: You’ve heard of the beer of the month or even the cigar of the month, but did you know there is a peanut butter and jelly of the month? Or the dog treat of the month? There are a lot more than that and there’s something for everyone. I must warn these clubs can be a bit pricey, but they do make phenomenal gifts. I’d love to get one as a gift though.
Jacket From Scottevest: Scottevest is a clothing company that specializes in providing you with lots of pockets. They have heavy jackets, light jackets, shirts, pants, and hats. For someone like me, who spends a lot of time on their feet and carries gadgets, keys, and wallets, this is a no brainer. The one I want has a removable hood and sleeves.
So that’s it for my recommendations. Leave a comment with your suggestions if you think the readers would really appreciate it. If enough comments go up I’ll keep this post featured on the website through the end of the month.
Have a great holiday, whatever it is you celebrate!
Please note, no recommendations are paid endorsements, they are simply the preferences of The Weakonomist. If however, any of these linked sites are interested in a paid endorsement, you know how to reach me : )
 By The Weakonomist |
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I’m still a big fan of booze for the holidays. I know its not PC anymore but if you have a friend or family member who likes a certain liquor, wine or beer get them some. My brother-in-law loves Jameson’s Whiskey. Its a bit pricey for him, but easily within our range. So we get him a bottle for Christmas. He’s mature enough not to guzzle it in one night. So I know it brings him joy for at least a couple of weeks or months.
I’m elated when someone buys me beer. I like Abita Amber if anyone is listening. But even a six pack (less than $8) would be enjoyed over a one week period for me.
The best thing about booze is you can be cheap about it or not. You can get one bottle/6 pack or a case – depending on how much you want to spend.