Groovy Gifts . . . . Scooters, Pottery Wine Goblets, etc.

Romantic Birthday Gift Ideas

admin — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:24:17 +0000

In our last post, we considered the dilemma of buying a gift for the person who has everything. Now let’s move on to another tricky problem in the arena of gift buying – how to come up with romantic birthday gift ideas. Because it’s probably fair to say that we all face this dilemma more frequently than we care to admit: how do we find something that sends a romantic message to the one (or ones) that we love on the occasion of their birthday, something that is within our budget, obtainable in practice and not just theory, and seen as both romantic and desirable by the intended recipient? For example, it might be incredibly romantic to take your girlfriend or boyfriend to dinner at a fancy restaurant overlooking the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge – but if he or she lives in Europe and has no passport, or lives in the USA and refuses to fly, or you’re in Atlanta with very little money available, then that romantic idea is neither “doable” in practice nor is it within your budget.

However much we love someone, inevitably there comes a time when coming up with something original and romantic is a problem. So to help you out, let’s start with some general thoughts and tips and then move on to specific gift ideas. And there are three key factors for you to take into account before you decide on any type of gift – none of them secret or revolutionary, but all of them essential to keep in mind when you’re preparing a list of gift ideas:

How much should you spend? Clearly your budget is of prime importance and sadly, for most of us, likely to be the main limiting factor. So there’s no point in planning a getaway to the South of France if your credit cards are maxed out and the most you have is $100! And if you are lucky enough to have a large and almost limitless budget, spending too much can send just as inappropriate message as spending too little. So set yourself a budget that is both within your financial reach yet not too high to cause any sort of embarrassment to the recipient.

How long before the birthday of the person you’re buying for? If you’ve left it too late, some ideas may be out of reach. For example, if your boyfriend would just love to have a weekend opportunity to drive the two of you around in a Corvette and you phone the hire company just a day or two in advance, they may be unable to help you. Or if there’s a great new show on stage in your local city, leaving it too late may mean that only the back of the theater (less desirable) tickets are available, taking all of the gloss off that particular option.

What type of personality are you buying for? You obviously want to match the gift you buy to the intended recipient’s preferences and personal style. So a weekend getaway hiking or climbing might be great for the outdoor and athletic types, but would totally miss the mark for a couch potato who hates exercise. A secluded weekend at a quiet beach getaway would be fine for the type of person who needs and values rest and relaxation, but totally wrong for the individual who thrives on noisy nights out at crowded night clubs.

Taking all of that general stuff into account, give some thought to these ideas when you’re next looking for that perfect romantic birthday gift:

A surprise weekend getaway. It could be New York, Miami or just somewhere your partner has always wanted to visit. Check with travel agents for last minute bargains if timing is an issue.
A romantic piece of jewelry. What says “romance” better than heart jewelry, so how about a silver heart locket containing a photo of the two of you?
A picnic in the local park. Gather some favorite snack foods and a bottle of wine plus glasses, take a blanket and check the weather forecast!
A cruise that takes in one or more exotic islands. Choose the one that offers all of the on-board extras and pampering that your partner loves.
A dinner for two at his or her favorite restaurant. Arrange to have some memento (such as a bunch of flowers or a piece of jewelry) picked out in advance and delivered by you to the restaurant, then presented on your behalf by the restaurant staff during the meal.
A photo of the two of you together. Schedule a sitting at the local photographers.
A scrapbook containing recollections and mementos from some of your most romantic times together – for example, where and when you met, great nights out and vacations you have treasured.

These are just a few ideas that may not match your circumstances and budget – but use them as a start point and, together with the principles above, you should be able to create some new romantic birthday ideas for that special person in your life.

Pottery Wine Goblets – The Perfect Gift?

admin — Wed, 05 May 2010 14:32:31 +0000

Have you ever been stuck for a gift idea for the person who seems to have everything? Or are you looking for an unusual wedding or anniversary present?

One gift idea that I know I would appreciate is a set of pottery wine goblets. Sure, I have in my wine glass rack some really nice wine glasses and champagne flutes and margarita glasses – but there is something really special about pottery wine goblets and that makes them high on my list of desirable gifts.

There are a lot of different styles and types of pottery wine goblets available. Some have pottery stems and bases with a glass bowl attached while others are hand thrown so making each one unique and special. My personal preference is for the latter. There are also lots of different colors and patterns available.

Unlike glass wine glasses, pottery wine goblets conjure up many images in my mind. I can picture a huge farmhouse table spread with superb fresh foods, fruits, bread, cheese and wine with different generations of Italian or French families getting together for an alfresco meal on a balmy Mediterranean evening. The adults talking and laughing while the children play under the trees and the dogs lie nearby hoping to pick up any scraps that are dropped from the table.

Another image that comes to mind is of the Middle Ages in England and the rustic tables simply set and the everyday people enjoying drinking their mead from pottery goblets. On the other hand the tables of the aristocracy would be lavishly arrayed with silver or gold platters and serving dishes and gold or silver wine goblets.

Nowadays, the majority of wine glasses on the market are made of glass and there are lots of different sizes and designs to choose from. There are hand painted sets, lead crystal sets or just cheap and cheerful sets. Many wine aficionados prefer glass as they think that because of the thinness of the glass and the fact that it is clear it doesn’t detract from the flavor and the color. And nothing sets off a beautiful laid table (spotless white table linen, beautiful silverware, and bone china dinnerware) for a special meal like sparkling glassware.

But the next time you’re stuck for an idea for a unique present for someone you love or respect (or when you just want to treat yourself to a high-class addition to your dining and entertaining tableware), why not think about investing some of your money in pottery wine goblets?

X-Treme XG-470 Gas Scooter

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 15:22:28 +0000

X-Treme XG-470 Gas Scooter

X-Treme XG-470 – The XTreme XG-470 is a fantastic “out of the box” gas scooter. You wont find mods or upgrades available like on some of the higher end brands, but check out the standard feature list on this gas powered scooter… it’s impressive! This X-Treme gas scooter has a sleek body design that turns heads, the performance blows you away and the value is outstanding. The 49cc engine rockets you along at speeds of up to 30 mph and offers plenty of torque to conquer hilly terrain. The charging system is all built into the engine, as you ride your XG-470 gas scooter, it will charge the battery automatically. We also include an external charger that will allow you to plug the scooter in so you can charge it when it is not in use or during the off season.XG-470 Gas Scooter Specifications:• Speed: 30 mph• Range: 20 miles (that’s about 75 miles per gallon!)• Motor: 49cc, 2-stroke, air cooled gas powered engine. • Frame: Heavy duty steel frame with a durable plastic body. Non-slip grip tape decking with cool flame graphics.• Start Method: Electric start and back up pull starter.• Battery: 12v, 7ah sealed lead acid battery.• Drive System: Chain driven with a variable speed twist throttle.• Oil Type: 2 cycle oil. • Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (high octane recommended).• Fuel Tank Capacity: 1 liter. • Brakes: : Front drum and rear band braking systems.• Dry Weight: 50 lbs. • X-Treme XG-470 Scooter Dimensions: Length 46" Width at Handlebars 19", at Deck 10"Height 42", Height when folded 21.5"• Carrying Capacity: 320 lbs. • Tires: 10″ superior quality pneumatic tires with Aluminum Mag Wheels.• Warranty: FREE UPGRADE from 30 days to 90 days on the XG-470 manufacturer’s warranty, plus a 6 month warranty on batteries, priority service and LIFETIME TECHNICAL SUPPORT!X-Treme XG-470 Gas Scooter Standard Features: • Adjustable height, spring loaded, shock absorbing seat.• Handlebars fold for easy transport and storage.• Key ignition for added security.• Smart battery charger that prevents overcharging.• Headlights.• Brake light.• Front facing turn signals (left and right).• Rear/side facing turn signals (left and right).• Electric horn.• Speed indicator.• Battery level gauge.• Rear cargo box with key lock and rear facing reflector.• Kickstand.• Tool kit.More Info About the XG-470 Scooter: • Not legal for use in California. This scooter does not comply with California’s strict emissions standard. Click here for more info. • 99% assembled. Simply raise and adjust the handlebars, attach the seat, cargo box, gas and go.• Speed and range specs are maximum ratings under ideal conditions, i.e. light weight rider (relative to carrying capacity), good terrain (solid, flat, smooth & dry), etc. Less than ideal conditions will reduce speed, range and climbing ability.

Check Prices at UrbanScooters.com, Inc.

Love Pendant and Heart Charm

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:41:56 +0000

Love Pendant and Heart Charm

John Wind has developed and refined a unique, vintage approach to the design of highly-collectible jewelry and decorative accessories. In this unique piece a 24″ white coated gold chain holds two gold pendants. A vintage inspired 3/4″ hammered heart hangs in front of a 1″ round “love” charm. For the hopelessly romantic or those who have a hard time putting their love into words, this necklace will speak for itself.

Check Prices at SpoilHer.com

Go-Ped GSR Scooter Carrying Bag

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 09:53:34 +0000

Go-Ped GSR Scooter Carrying Bag

This canvas scooter bag makes transporting your Go-Ped GSR 25, Go-Ped GSR Sport, GSR Cruiser, or Super GSR46R a breeze. In fact, this carrying bag is great for hauling any scooter with folded dimensions smaller than 43" X 17" X 17" (LxWxH). Like everything Go-Ped manufacturers, this scooter bag is well-made and durable.

Check Prices at UrbanScooters.com, Inc.

Silver Heart Necklace

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 08:52:00 +0000

Silver Heart Necklace

This romantic double heart sterling silver pendant is a simple yet interesting piece. With a 16″ sterling silver chain, it will hang close to her heart and remind her of your love.

Check Prices at SpoilHer.com

Bee My Valentine Cookie Gift Basket

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 05:07:00 +0000

Bee My Valentine Cookie Gift Basket

Filled with delightful cookies, this 11a dia. wicker gift basket is hand packed with an assortment of 19 tempting cookies. The first dozen are white chocolate dipped oreos embellished with candy sprinkles and edible art designs by Itty Bitty Ink. A half dozen large 3 1/2a sugar cookie hearts are sprinkled with toppings and added to the mix, as well as a 2 1/2a square sugar cookie card reading aBee My Valentine!a

Check Prices at SpoilHer.com

Heart and Pearl Pendant

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 03:08:55 +0000

Heart and Pearl Pendant

Jill Pearson blends the clean, streamlined design of her Asian culture with the American tradition of spunky, surprising, inventive style. A slim and elongated 18″ sterling silver cable chain compliments the featured contemporary heart charm. Graceful and simplistic with a single white accent pearl, this 1″ matte charm has a modern heart shape. This perfect, simplistic melding of precious materials will accent her natural beauty and increase her heartfelt affections.

Check Prices at SpoilHer.com

Mirrycle Rear View Mirror

admin — Fri, 29 May 2009 02:31:30 +0000

Mirrycle Rear View Mirror

Description:The Mirrycle is the perfect safety accessory! It attaches unobtrusively to the handlebar of your scooter or bike without interfering with your grip on the handle. It sticks out far enough so you can see whats behind you without having to move your arm. The Mirrycle can also fold away quickly when needed. It’s unique pivot nut and wedge system ensures a secure fit for a variety of handlebar diameters.Mounts to the end of the handlebar in minutes.3″ convex mirror offers wide field of view.Adjustable to any viewing angle.Lightweight, rugged polycarbonate.Folds up quickly for trail riding.Wrench included.

Check Prices at UrbanScooters.com, Inc.

Sterling Silver Filigree Pendant

admin — Thu, 28 May 2009 21:52:54 +0000

Sterling Silver Filigree Pendant

Intricate and heart filled, this sterling silver pendant is stunningly beautiful. Dressed up or down, the delicate filigree is a versatile design adding that special detail to any outfit. Measuring 1 5/8″ in dia. with a 16″ snake chain this piece hangs perfectly around the neck.

Check Prices at SpoilHer.com