By Steven Rothberg

Well, it is that time of the year again. Time to figure out what presents to buy your loved ones and what hints to drop to them so they'll know what is on your wish list. Haven't given it much thought yet? We have. In no particular order, here are some great ideas:

1. Love your DVD but wish you could do more with it than just watch movies? Scene It DVD Movie Game is a blast for film buffs and casual moviegoers alike. Scene It challenges players with memory and observation games, word play, and Hollywood trivia using real movie clips and more!
2. Looking for some relaxation but at work, not home? Cranium Cosmo is the perfect office toy for aspiring actors, artists, data hounds, or wordsmiths looking to create, noodle, puzzle, or play for a few minutes every day.
3. Want to continue the mental challenge at home? Cranium Hoopla delivers high-fiving fun in a race against the clock as players rally together to add sound effects to impromptu performances, do hilarious sketches, come up with clever brainteasers, and solve quick-witted word challenges.
4. In the mood for fun, but with a pet rather than a person? That's great, but what if your friends aren't around? No problem. Just pull out your MicroPet. These pocket-sized pets respond to your commands. They even sing when praised.
5. Pocket-sized toys intrigue you but you want something zippy? ZipZaps are pocket-sized, full-function radio controlled sportsters that are customizable, with a wide variety of parts and accessories so owners can tune cars to their own specifications.
6. You'll need something for your feet when you're running to keep up after those babies. The answer? Birkenstock Boston classic clogs, featuring suede upper, adjustable strap, shock-absorbing EVA outer sole and a suede lined cork/latex footbed. Available at birkenstock.com and fine stores such as Amazon.com.
7. Of course, footwear comes in all types, including many options for those who are sports minded. For those into yoga, what could be better than the Kyoto, a shoe specifically designed by Nike for those headed to or from yoga?
8. Even if golf is more to your liking than yoga, you're still going to like Nike. They have golf shoes that are stylish and comfortable. Why wasn't I surprised?
9. While some may maintain that those who love golf have lost their marbles, no golfer will want to lose their Nike Precision Power Distance Super Soft golf balls.
10. Those of us who grew up in Canada recognize that golf is a great game, but what are you going to do the other 51 weeks of the year when there's snow on the ground? Hockey! And if you're going to play, you've got to have the right stick. You can't go wrong with the Easton Carbon, the same stick used by Steve Yzerman, the captain of the Stanley Cup champion Detroit Red Wings.
11. For those of us who don't get our exercise from playing hockey and recognize that there isn't much physical fitness benefit derived from drinking a beer while watching it, a great alternative is the Karen Voight "Sleek Physique" workout DVD. Each workout is only a half hour and is labeled by the day of the week so it is easy to keep track of which workout comes next.
12. In just a few months, even those of us in the northern climates will be able to pull out our bicycles and enjoy the fresh air. That enjoyment ends pretty quickly, however, if your bike gets stolen. The answer? The Cy-Curity bike alarm system, a remote-activated device that is installed under a bike seat to remain completely hidden from plain view. The built in motion sensor detects any movement of the bike and emits a 115 decibel siren that will thwart a bike thief from completing the crime.
13. Enjoy riding but looking for a different route? How about following the migration route of a monarch butterfly? Better yet, how about following the migration route of your own monarch butterfly? You may acquire a monarch butterfly from Monarch.org in any of the monarch's life stages to best suit your needs.
14. Don't forget to pack some clothing for your trip, and what could be better than environmentally friendly clothing made from 100 percent recycled materials (50 percent Fortrel EcoSpun and 50 percent cotton), including a Round Trip t-shirt and socks from Birkenstock.
15. Want to keep notes on the progress that you and your monarch are making? How about with the first-of-its-kind writing instrument that marks like a #2 pencil, yet flows as smoothly as a ballpoint pen. The Stylus Ballpoint Pencil - there's not another pencil in the world like it. Available in stores nationwide, including
16. When the project calls for a pen but your hand is aching, pick up the Massaging Pen by Red Envelope. Push a button and it actually vibrates.
17. And what goes better with a wonderful pen than wonderful business accessories, such as business journals, planners, organizers, writing pads and document cases? For an awesome collection that is very affordable, you need to check out those from Cambridge. They're widely available in stores like Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Target and Office Depot.
18. Taking those accessories to a meeting? Don't forget your Margi Presenter-to-Go Secure Digital (SD) Card. Used with your Palm handheld, the Presenter-to-Go allows you to make presentations created in PowerPoint or any printable Windows application directly from your handheld. No more lugging your laptop. Very slick.
19. While business accessories will help keep you organized and productive during the workday, storage accessories will do the same during leisure hours. Case Logic is a leader in quality storage accessories for compact discs, CD-ROMs, cassettes, DVDs, MiniDiscs, portable electronics, desktop ergonomics, computer accessories, camera totes, camcorder bags and automotive products such as an attachment for your visor. I use mine to store CDs, sunglasses, a pen and more.
20. If keeping CDs organized is on your wish list, but you're thinking of keeping them in your home rather than your car, you'll want to drop some hints about the Pendaflex CD File. Music, data...this versatile file organizes it all. Eight pockets to store and protect CDs. Elastic close keeps disks safely inside. Built-in hook for hanging, each pocket cascades down for fast access. Folds into its own compact case.
21. Need to store your CDs but you have 60 rather eight? You'll want to add the SC60 Steel CD case to your wish list. Made by cdProjects, these babies include the world's safest sleeves, which are are even removable so you can have a case for home, a case for your car, and quickly swap CDs between the cases.
22. If you have a lot of CDs, then chances are you also have a lot of DVDs. With the DVD Copy Plus, you can make backup copies of DVD movies onto inexpensive CD-Rs, CD-RWs or DVD-Rs so you can play your movies anywhere: in your living room, on your home theater system, in your portable DVD player, or your home PC with DVD drive.
23. For those of us over the age of 21, a great way of relaxing at home is to pull out one of those CDs and share a bottle of wine friends. Gallo of Sonoma has some great choices: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot and, perhaps for New Year's, Ballatore Gran Spumante California sparking wine.
24. If you also love a great cup of coffee, you'll want to drop some hints for the Mr. Coffee ECM 20 four cup espresso and cappuccino maker with an easy-pour decanter, frothing aid, removable drip tray and removable drothing aid. If you're more of a regular coffee drinker, then you'll love the Mr. Coffee ESX33 ten cup programmable clock/timer coffeemaker with a removable water reservoir, two hour auto shut off, brewing pause and serve, and adjustable temperature warming plate.
25. Rather than pouring that cup of coffee into some nondescript mug, wouldn't it be a lot more enjoyable if you could drink it out of a mug decorated with the logo and colors of your school? And look around the room and see the same decorations on picture frames, key chains, zipper pulls, bookmarks and luggage tags? They're all available from Three Cheers by calling 1-888-333-2260, ext. 2223.
26. Of course, a great way to enjoy that glass of wine or cup of coffee is to snuggle up on a comfy coach. Make that snuggling foolproof with a Whole Home Down Throw. Made of sueded fabric and filled with down, these lightweight and soft throws will keep you warm and comfortable.
27. Got the picture of that nice, relaxing evening? But perhaps you enjoy making your own music rather than listing to a CD. For the guitar players in our midst, Elixer guitar strings should be on their lists. Elixir Strings were recently named as the winner in the 2002 Acoustic Guitar Magazine Players Choice Awards, as they were in 2001 and 2000.
28. All that guitar playing got you feeling a bit hungry? Perhaps the sweetest gift idea in this column is a gift basket from Cookies by Design. What a sweet way to express your sentiments.
29. Hungry but more in the mood for a great meal first? Dinegift of Eastern Mass is a gift certificate redeemable at over 60 restaurants. From Newburyport to Cape Cod, MetroWest to Boston, and everywhere in between, this gift certificate allows the recipient the ability to make their own dining decisions, while you only need to make one!
30. Dining in Boston sound great, except what if you're hours away? Hop on Southwest Airlines. With one way fares starting at $39 and the friendliest employees in the industry, how can you go wrong…especially if you're on the receiving end of one of their gift certificates?
31. While packing for that trip to Boston, don't forget to plan on ordering a big bowl of Boston Clam Chowder, perhaps the most delicious soup ever conceived. Lactose intolerant? Don't despair. Do what I do. Always carry a supply of Lactaid dietary supplements.
32. Whether your flight will be short or long, a great way of passing the time is with a Nintendo Platinum GameBoy Advance and two of the hottest games: Yoshi's Island Super Mario Advance 3 game and Super Mario World Super Mario Advance 2. The graphics are so incredible, you'll swear you were in an arcade.
33. Another awesome way of passing the time while you're jetting off is with a Nike PSA 128 Max MP3 player, probably the most amazing MP3 player for athletes and those on the go.
34. Of course, what's an MP3 player without MP3s? If you want to download full length tracks or even complete albums, play them on your computer or portable player, and burn as many CDs as you want, you need to check out Emusic. Right now, you can even get 50 free MP3s as part of their free trial offer.
35. Dinner in Boston sound great but you're too busy studying? Have your loved one send some snacks, and maybe even a toy or two, to you. Even the box is a treat. CarePackages.com
36. Whether you chose to dine out or munch on snacks, don't forget to brush your teeth. And after brushing your teeth, apply Colgate Simply White, a clear tooth whitening gel that is applied with a brush. The gel is made with a polymer system that will adhere to your teeth so that the whitening ingredients can work without the use of messy trays or strips.
37. Gadgets. Gadgets. Want some more gadgets? If you like chess, you need to add Excalibur Electronics Touch Chess to your wish list. The power of a multi-functional chess computer combined with the efficiency and ease of a touch screen. Packed in an elegant and functional housing with an oversize touch screen, Touch Chess is powerful chess play and fun to use.
38. If you prefer to read while flying, you're really in luck as I've got a bunch of recommendations, at least one of which is sure to strike your fancy:

1. You're Already a Success! Thoughts on Beginning a New Career. An inspirational handbook of advice and encouragement aimed at recent graduates and others who are entering the work world for the first time or in the middle of changing careers.
2. Getting the Most from Study Abroad. One of the Students Helping Students guides, all of which are written and edited by top students and recent grads from colleges and universities across the U.S. You'll find no condescending advice here - just stuff to help you succeed in tackling your academic, social, and professional challenges!
3. Graduate! Everything You Need to Succeed After College. A complete guide to thriving and living well after college.
4. Nonstop Networking: How to Improve Your Life, Luck, and Career. Reveals the secrets for making long-lasting, positive, professional and personal contacts. This book reveals a new and refreshing approach to networking based mutual benefits rather than personal gains.
5. Monster Lies: A Woman's Guide to Controlling Her Destiny. A succinct manual for making immediate life changes. Debunks common pitfalls people encounter when they attempt to change their lives and explains how to toss these inhibitions to work toward personal success.
6. One Man's Leg. As a kid, athletic competition provided Paul Martin some relief from an otherwise difficult childhood. Later, living in a foster home, it was the stage on which to gain attention that didn't seem to be available elsewhere. But it was only at the age of 25, when he had lost a part of the very thing he relied on most to compete (specifically, the lower half of his left leg), that he made his commitment--and went on to become a world champion triathlete and Paralympic competitor.
7. The Water Thief. Frank and profound, this is the story of one man's journey toward redemption. It is both a riveting adventure story and a piercing exposé on spiritual isolation and the one thing with the power to prevail over it: forgiveness.
8. European Menu Translater. This user friendly pocket-sized dictionary is designed for travelers who want to understand the specialized cuisine terminology of France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
9. Cuss Control. Finally--the cure for the common curse! Faced with an epidemic of profanity, our country is in need of practical suggestions for breaking a habit that has ordinary citizens contributing to the decline of civility and good manners.
10. Women for Hire: The Ultimate Guide for Getting a Job. Identifies specific ways for job seekers to maximize their search efforts and secure a great new job.
11. Ruminations on College Life. With hilarious insights, observations, and personal anecdotes on everything from partying all night, to learning to do laundry, to falling asleep in class, this book captures the college experience like never before.
12. Best Resumes for College Students and New Grads. A collection of more than 100 professional written resumes designed to help you land the job you deserve.
13. The RAT: The Real World Aptitude Test: Preparing Yourself for Leaving Home. Provides answers to some of life's most common stumbling blocks, such as how to change a flat tire or how to handle computer problems as well as facts on generalized knowledge in areas such as geography and politics. Perfect for young adults leaving the nest and adults who are entering a new phase of life such as parenthood or retirement.
14. The Headhunter's Edge. Recruiting and retaining the proper employees is an undeniable key to corporate success. This book offers proven advice for those on either side of the process.
15. The College Senior's Survival Guide to Corporate America. A tell-it-like-it-is guide to the real world of corporate America. A cubicle dweller turned stand-up comedian, the author points his stinging wit at every facet of corporate life, including the commuter train, the 401k plan, the IT department, and the Christmas party. Between laughs, learn not merely how to survive but how to beat the system.
16. Turntable Techniques: The Art of the DJ. Learn to play the turntable like your favorite DJs and create your own style! This essential guidebook and companion 2-record set teaches you to play the turntable as a musical instrument.

39. So you've got your restaurant reservation. You've got your flight booked. You've got some games and books. How do you get them all there? An Eastsport Trapezoid sling backpack, which combine performance and substance in a bag that not only looks good but feels great.
40. Also have a notebook computer with you? Then you're going to want to thank Targus. These folks make incredible backpacks and other essential accessories for your mobile life. Their Sport Standard Computer Backpack, for example, includes a padded computer compartment for notebook protection, multiple compartments for files and accessories, and is constructed of rugged lightweight materials.
41. On your trip, you'll want to look your best. Qiora's Eye Wrapping Spa (Mask) is a cooling gel-infused compress that envelopes the delicate eye area with soothing moisture. Formulated with Chestnut Rose Extract for intense moisture and calming aromatic essences, this mask promotes a deep state of relaxation. Qiora's Eye Wrapping Spa (Essence) is a light hydrating gel that alleviates fatigue and brightens the eye area. This state-of-the-art formulation includes Raspberry Extract, which repairs and prevents under eye circles, Beech Tree Shoot Extract to improve the skin's elasticity, and Medicinal Plant Extracts to even out pigmentation.
42. For the rest of your body, Shiseido, the Japanese beauty leader with 130 years of expertise in the skin care field, has revived their cult-class Honey Cake soaps. The mild translucent soaps are scented with a delicate bouquet of amber, fougere and honey can be used as a hair shampoo and as a facial or body cleansing bar.
43. For those who want to pamper themselves even more, turn your home into your own private spa. For your hands, there's the Moisturestay Fast HeatUp Luxury Paraffin Bath. For your face, the MoistureStay Facial Sauna with Bonus Inhaler. Sooth your feet with Dr. Scholl's Premium Foot Spa with Water Jets. And get the kinks and aches out of your back with Dr. Scholl's Mini Percussion Massager. Aaahhhh.
44. Now that you feel as good as you look, you'll probably want to complete the sensory experience with AURA, a fresh, sexy, new floral fragrance for women by American Eagle Outfitters.
45. Well, now that you're thinking about fragrances for yourself, how about the fragrance of your home? Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day is a collection of seven hard-working home cleaners that embody simplicity, common sense and the refreshing power of garden herbs and flowers. Crisp and energizing, Mrs. Meyer's Lemon Verbena products are truly invigorating as they may inspire you to wash the outside windows and clean behind the couch! Lemon oil works hard to clean surfaces, while the inviting aroma of verbena blossoms lends a bit of romance to your home.
46. Finished cleaning your home and clothes? Time to pull out the iron so that you'll look your best. Don't have one? You'll love the Sunbeam Dura Press 4067 iron. Its auto off indicator senses time, motion and position. Stubborn wrinkles don't stand a chance against its steam feature. You can iron hung garments or drapes…no ironing board needed!
47. You're just about done getting everything tidy. Did you remember to clean your computer screen? If it gets looking anything like mine can, then you'll want the Falcon MicroCloth With Zip Clip. It safely and gently removes dust, dirt, and smudges from almost any surface…including computer monitors and TV screens.
48. Okay. Those are a lot of suggestions and there may only be a few days to go until your loved ones buy your gifts. Time to get in touch with them…all of them. If the thought of holding that phone with your hand or shoulder is unpleasant, then you've got to try the Plantronics CT10 Cordless Headset Telephone. This single line cordless analog telephone includes a lightweight over-the-head style headset and pocket-sized remote. I even used it while raking leaves!
49. If you prefer to call from your cell phone, you'll love the Plantronics MX-100 Cellular Headset. Stable, discreet, and comfortable and provides superior sound clarity. Includes three interchangeable color covers. Look ma! No hands!
50. A few other great options for cellular users are the JABRA EarBoom Winder, a retractable hands-free device for mobile phones that eliminates the hassle of tangled cords; JABRA EarBud Lanyard for mobile phones that allows users to wear the EarBud and their mobile phone around their neck for convenient hands-free communications; and JABRA EarSet, which combines both a speaker and microphone in a single, miniature earpiece.
51. If Internet chat or telephony are more your speed, then (surprise, surprise) Plantronics has the perfect solution: the Audio 90 Multimedia Stereo PC Headset. Gamers and audiophiles will appreciate the rich, full-range stereo sound of the Audio 90 multimedia stereo PC headset. This new headset is perfect for games, music, Internet chat, telephony, speech recognition, and video conferencing. Equipped with inline volume and mute controls, a QuickAdjust microphone boom and a superior noise-canceling microphone for improved speech accuracy.
52. Well, if dropping all of those hints to your loved ones made you as tired as it did me, then sleep can't be too far away. Unfortunately, nothing makes sleep more difficult than a snoring roommate. Whether the snoring is coming from your side or someone else is responsible, you'll want a bottle of Snorenz. Free of artificial colors or flavors, its patented Liposome process delivers droplet spray mists directly to the back of the throat, lubricating the uvula (soft palate) that ordinarily vibrates with each breath.
53. And, last but not least, the INSecurity Blanket, a great way to tell your loved one or pet that you love them, even when you aren’t there. In addition to being a great holiday present, the blanket is a great present for a milestone birthday, starting college, new parents or a recent break-up. It is a great way to tell someone that you love them, even when you aren’t there.

During this holiday season, let us remember that this is a season for giving. Give to others. Give to those you know. To those you love. To those you care for. But more importantly, give to those who are alone and in need. While the gift of material things can be very important to those in need, so is the gift of yourself. Be generous with yourself and your time, for those gifts are the most precious of all.