Doesn’t everyone know someone who always seems to be the “odd man out?” That isn’t meant to be insulting. But there is always that one friend or relative who is most comfortable taking the unbeaten path. Sometimes it is difficult to shop for people who prefer PBS over HBO, or science over “substance.” These special people need to be thought of during the holidays too. So, if you know someone who has a penchant for doing the unusual, then you’ll want to take a peek at this list:
1] GREEN THUMB-
Your gift recipient does not have to have a green thumb to enjoy Things You Never Existed’s ‘Graveyard Garden.’ This is essentially a “mini-greenhouse filled with all sorts of weird and “kooky” looking plants. There is a Sensitive Plant, that has leaves that move when they are touched, and a Dragon Tree with sharp-edged leaves. The planter is relatively small, and only costs about $22. If your giftee was a fan of “The Addams Family” he/she will love this present.
2] ENVIRONMENTALISTS-
The die-hard environmentalist will absolutely adore this $400 gift from Greenfeet: The X-tra large Ecosphere. Sure, you and I have never heard of anything like this. And perhaps your gift recipient has not either. In any event, he/she will marvel at this entirely self-contained atmosphere. Inside this glass ball is a completely enclosed ecosystem which contains filtered seawater, algae, bright red shrimp, and other microorganisms. It’s incredibly simple to care for, as there are no maintenance requirements outside of providing light. You’ve really got to know that your giftee would appreciate something like this. Because $400 to shell out for a glass ball full of water and “invisible” living things seems like a lot of cash.
3] A JOLT OF JAVA (on the skin…?)-
Perhaps your weird buddy or relative is a coffee drinker. Well, maybe they would prefer their java OUTSIDE of the cup, as opposed to inside. If this is the case, then choosing a Misikko Body Polish scrub will be the perfect holiday gift. This body scrub is comprised of dead sea salts, Arabica bean coffee, and other herbs and extracts. Apparently this scrub is supposed to refresh tired muscles, and is even used in five star hotels like New York City’s Four Seasons. For only $33, it’s a great way to pamper your friend for the holidays.
4] WRITE ON! –
The scribe will enjoy Isabella’s (brand) Emperor’s Calligraphy Box. I remember when my mother got me a calligraphy set as a child. I sat for hours writing my name over and over again. It was a really neat gift. And I wish I had saved my set. This $22 version is actually a Chinese calligraphy set. The spiffy looking box holds five brushes, an ink stick, red ink, and more. For the artist, this is a really nice, yet inexpensive holiday present.
5] LIGHTS, LIGHTS, ACTION!-
Here is a really nifty gift that I wouldn’t mind having for myself. For people who love nostalgia-especially 70’s nostalgia, this is the present of all presents. The Liquid Light Projector floods an entire wall or ceiling with liquid psychadelic light. This is wonderful for parties, or just for the individual who enjoys the quirky things in life.
6] WEIRDOES LIKE JEWELRY TOO-
For the holistic jewerlry wearer, you might certainly want to purchase the Sacred Ways mosaic opal pendant. I must say that these little pendants are simply beautiful. These stones, referred to as Boulder Opal have all sorts of mystical looking blue and turquoise hues. They can be set in silver or gold, and are most certain to be a conversation piece. There are different versions which cost anywhere from $75 to $90.
7] BAMBOO YOU-
Have you ever heard of a bamboo computer keyboard? You holiday gift recipient probably has not either. He/she doesn’t have to be a computer geek to enjoy this fancy-looking gift. The Takechiyo Bamboo Keyboard is priced a little over $100. But it’s an incredibly stately looking piece of equipment. Though the keyboard is made with all-natural bamboo, it is fully functional, and will not be misshapen as time passes.
8] PASSION FOR FASHION-
Fashionista weirdo gift recipients will love Betsey Johnson’s funky Pajama set. Priced at $75, this set includes a thong and pajamas which are made of fuzzy flannel designed with zebra stripes and trimmed in bright pink. It just doesn’t get any funkier than this.
9] GET ‘XPERIENCED-
Maybe your holiday giftee has a spot for adventure. If this is the case, then provide an “Experience” for him/her. The Xperienced Days service allows you to choose any number of exciting experiences including, a Hands-On Scenic flight around Los Angeles, A Gourmet San Francisco Dinner Cruise for Two, A Hot Air Balloon ride, or even an aerobatic flight for two. Many of these experiences take place in different cities. Most of the activities cost $250 and up. But these little trips make for great memories. And your giftee will love bragging about flying over the Golden Gate Bridge.
10] GET HER A “BOYFRIEND”-
Maybe your female (or male, these days) giftee is in need of a little cuddling, but has no cuddler to call her own. Why not get her a boyfriend “arm” pillow. Sometimes we all need a little TLC. And this polyester filled arm wraps around you comfortingly. It’s really perfect for snuggling up on the couch or anywhere else you want to get comfy. For only $20 this pillow will provide physical consolation over a bad day, without all the extra “trouble.”