Every year we struggle to make Christmas perfect. We rush around buying this and that, decorating the house, wrapping gifts, going to parties, having parties and just generally are busier then any other time of the year. We worry about having enough money and time to get every thing done. We spend time fighting our way through busy stores looking for just the right gifts to make Christmas perfect. We try to get all the “important” gifts on our children’s Christmas lists and make every Christmas memorable. The truth is we don’t know what present a teen girl will always remember. We have no idea what is going to end up being that special gift that stays in her memory.
Often times it is not the big flashy gift she had to have. More often then not it is something small that has some impact on her, has more meaning to her then anything else. There is no way to know what that will be. All we can do is try our best to find things that we think she will love, enjoy and use, and hope she likes them all. And just maybe some thing we give her this year will be the present she will always cherish and remember.
We also have to remember for the most part it is not receiving the gift on Christmas morning that makes a gift memorable, but it is the time spent with that gift and the memories around it. What might make the gift important is who gave it to her, how it was given to her and just how much she likes it. However, knowing that is not going to stop us from trying to find the one gift that stands apart from all other gifts she has ever received.
The best way to go about finding that gift is to look for gifts that suit her. It is not important how much it costs, if it is trendy or the newest technology. All that matters is that it is something that fits her personality. Something that is symbolic to her. It could be a necklace, a book, stuffy, a craft kit, a joke gift, her first journal, a CD of a band she never heard of before, or anything. The one thing we can all be sure on is that her most memorable Christmas present will not be a gift certificate or gift card.
Chances are you are looking for something a little usual that will stand out a bit but as we both know the gift she likes the most could be any thing. Think about what your teen girl has shown interest in and have fun looking. Just take the pressure off yourself because you do not decide what Christmas presents your teen girl will always remember, she does. It is too individual of a thing for anyone else to tell you what Christmas presents your teen girl will always remember as being special.
Showing posts with label Gift Ideas for Teens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gift Ideas for Teens. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Christmas 2007 Science and discovery gift ideas for teens
Science is cool and more teens are discovering that mainly due to shows like CSI, Bones, Numbers, Journey to Mars, Race to Mars, and Myth Busters. There are a lot of gifts available for teens who are interested in science and quite a few that will capture a teenager’s interest even if they are not interested in science. I have created a list of the top Christmas 2007 Science and discovery gift ideas for teens. As there are so many fields under the title science I have tried to give a variety of science and discovery gift ideas. You will also have to keep in mind that a 13 year old and a 19 year old are not going to be at the same science level and are not going to be interested in the same things. I have tried to give a variety of items that will be of interest for teens at multiple science levels.
1) Wear it: Teens love clothing. I have found some science themed clothing suitable for both the older and younger teens. I have only listed t-shirts though I did find some hoodies and hats.
The Periodic Table T-Shirt. The 7-color Periodic Table black t-shirt is made from 100% cotton and glows-in-the-dark. This shirt is $16.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Heavy Metal T-shirt is 100% cotton heavyweight black tee with white and red depictions of 11 heavy metals from copper to bismuth doodled in the style of a 16-year-old metalhead. The shirt is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Caffeine Molecule and Capsaicin Molecule T-shirts are great for both male and female teens. The caffeine molecule is printed in lime green on a navy shirt. The capsaicin molecule is printed in bright red on a maroon shirt. Both can be found at www.thinkgeek.com for $14.99.
Chocolate molecule ladies t-shirt. The Theobromine molecule is printed in magenta on a dark chocolate colored shirt and it is $17.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
"Actually, I AM a Rocket Scientist" T-Shirt is $19.95 at www.findgift.com.
“You Are Here” 100% cotton heavyweight black t-shirt. On the front, a view of the Milky Way galaxy with a sign that reads "You are Here" pointing in the general direction of Earth. The shirt is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
2) Science Books and software packages: Always interesting and you can find some with quite a few more scientific experiments and information then are found in kits and are often less expensive then kits.
MythBusters: Don't Try This at Home book. This is a very popular show, its science but fun science. I am a huge fan of the show and even though the experiments are not done in the traditional scientific manner it is still science and very interesting. Not to mention very entertaining. Each chapter tackles a different myth, urban legend, or wives tale and gives an experiment a teen can do that's related to the topic. There's also BrainBusters true and false quiz for each chapter cool facts about stuff. $12.99 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Crime Scene Investigation. Learn how evidence from a crime scene is magnified, run through machines, separated into parts, and examined with x-rays and lasers as computer experts, forensic botanists, artists, microbiologists, dentists, forensic anthropologists, and chemists work to catch crooks, killers, counterfeiters, and computer hackers. Then hone your own reasoning skills to solve crimes from police case files. I am a CSI fan and think that this book would be great for any one who is a fan of the shows. This is for any CSI wanabe. This book is $15.84 at www.sargentwelch.ca.
Janice VanCleave book 200 Gooey, Slippery, Slimy, Weird and Fun Experiments book. This book asks question that are answered through the sciences of physics, earth science, chemistry, biology, and astronomy with 200 safe and low-cost experiments that can be performed at home or in the classroom. This book is $10.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
"The Thomas Edison Book of Easy and Incredible Experiments", by James Cook. This is great for some one who is interested in general science. A great project book with 64 Edison experiments in physics, electricity, chemistry and energy. Includes full background information, scientific principles, procedures and expected results. Most experiments can be completed with household materials. This book is $14.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com
Usborne Science Encyclopedia. This is a great encyclopedia with tones of useful information on all science disciplines, over 8 sections with 20 major topics in each. It even has 140 experiment and activity ideas to do.
This book is $19.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
A+ Projects in Earth Science book By Janice VanCleave. This book explores 30 important earth science topics through hands-on experiments. Topic categories include mapping the earth, the earth in space, composition of the earth, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. The book is $12.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Starry Night Enthusiast Astronomy Software. This software provides a comprehensive astronomy course. Using 3D graphics this software shows stars visible from a backyard to distant galaxies deep in space. You can also view live images from special observation equipment via the Internet, keep track of upcoming events, create videos and files to easily view an event again later and read detailed information about each of the 2.5 million celestial objects. This software is $79.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
3) Space and space travel: Space and rockets have been popular since before we landed on the Moon. Now that they are building space stations and talking about going to Mars it is only increasing in popularity.
Space Station 3 Crystals Kit. This kit will teach your teen how the ISS is constructed, why astronauts will grow crystals in space, and how to create their own dazzling collection of 3 sparkling crystals, Emerald, Quartz, and Amethyst, right at home. This kit is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Star Pocket Accurate pocket size star finder to identify 70 constellations and 42 main stars. This kit includes 2 star maps, one for each hemisphere, 4 latitude attachments, built-in compass, protective sleeve, and an instruction booklet. It is $29.95 at www.physlink.com.
Hydrogen Fuel Rocket Kit. This is to make a rocket that runs on hydrogen fuel. This new hydrogen fuel technology uses water to generate the hydrogen fuel needed to thrust a sleek rocket 200 feet into the sky. The Hydrogen Fuel Rocket is a wonderful mixture of science and fun. This kit is $39.95 at www.physlink.com.
Astro Pack. This handy pack is a great tool for the beginning astronomy hobbyist. It includes a planisphere that shows the positions of the stars and constellations for any hour in the year; a book on how to choose, set up, and use a telescope; a month-by-month guide to the night sky; and a star chart that contains detailed comprehensive maps of the heavens. This is $21.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Astrolabe Kit. Use this handy device to determine the declination (elevation) and azimuth (horizontal arc) of any star or celestial body. You provide a compass. Astrolabes have been used in navigation for more than 2000 years, although their heyday was during the explorations of the 1400-1500s. Now the Global Positioning System has eliminated the need to rely on the stars for navigation, but using an astrolabe is still a fun astronomy activity! Instructions are printed right on the plastic body. This is $13.50 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Home Planetarium. This unique Space Theater home planetarium enhances your astronomy studies by projecting star positions as white points of light onto any wall or ceiling. Positions are accurate for each day of the year. The home planetarium includes five changeable constellation masks that show 5-7 constellations for each season plus circum-polar (unsetting northern) stars. This planetarium includes a 32-page activity guide with planet locator tables and an instructional audio CD with facts and ancient stories about the night sky, plus set up and viewing tips for each mask. This is $27.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
4) Cars and robots: There are a lot of advances in solar and robotic technology every day. There are new science projects in both these fields available all the time. I have found some that look like a lot of fun and are educational.
OWI Robots Amphibious Solar Vehicle kit. It is a toy vehicle that works on land and on water and uses solar power. As a teen builds this vehicle they will be learning what materials solar batteries are made from and the characteristics of solar batteries, advantages, and disadvantages of solar power and robotics. This is a non-soldering robot building kit recommended for beginners. No batteries required, it's solar powered and the solar cell is included. Screwdriver and pliers are required for assembly. This kit is $38.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
Solar Grasshopper. This is an easy to build mini-robot that runs on solar power. It comes with all the pieces your teen will need plus detailed diagrams and instructions. Assembly time is approximately 15 minutes and it does not involve any soldering. This kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
Intelligent Fuel Cell Car. The Car Kit Manual features experiments and background information to help your teen explore the history and future of emerging fuel cell technology. The Intelligent Fuel Cell Car is powered by the PEM Reversible Fuel Cell, which safely converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy. The clear plastic "intelligent" car backs up and turns 90 degrees when it hits a barrier. This kit is $79.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Elenco Photon Solar Racer Kit. This is such a cool kit. It is a toy race car that runs on solar power. Teens get to build it and learn about solar energy and how to convert it to useful applications, or at least fun ones. No soldering, no batteries needed for the science kit. Comes with high-energy solar panel. The solar car comes in clear plastic. The car can be painted any color scheme that you desire (paint is not supplied). The body of Photon is even made from recycled pop bottles. This kit is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Bioloid Humanoid Robotics Kit. The Bioloid can be configured as the default human form, or assembled into any one of dozens of different robotic creatures. 18 servos, a full motion editor and visual programming environment allow a teen to make the Bioloid interact with it's surroundings while performing complex movements that put other toy robots to shame. The Bioloid comes with several example programs to make it walk, avoid obstacles and interact with sound. The sensor module in the head of the robot features an IrDA receiver (for communicating with other robots via infrared), three proximity sensors (left, right and front) that can measure distance and luminosity, a microphone for sound detection and a piezo-electric speaker that can be used to play musical scales or generate simple beeping sounds. Robot can be programmed custom movements and behavior logic. This kit is $899.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Ultimate Robot Kit All you need to make 5 amazing robots. Ultimate Robot Kit comes with everything you need to build four robots: from plastic gears to a power pod, from cardboard frames to instruction cards with detailed photographs. Once you’ve mastered the BounceBot, CreepycrawlyBot, KnotBot and Gobblebot, use the extra pieces and create a fifth robot of your own design. This kit is $29.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
5) Science games: It is always great to learn when you are playing a game you are enjoying. You often don’t even realise how much you are learning.
Smart Lab Science & Nature Computer-Book Challenge. This is a wonderful combination game that uses the computer and a book. Teens can play by themselves or in a 2-player game. This game is fun and they learn all about nature and science as they play. Here is an example of some of the questions. What is the only rock that floats in water? What animal sleeps just two hours at a time, and always keeps an eye open? Where did the world's first industrial robot go to work? This game is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Smart Lab Weird & Gross Computer-Book Challenge. This is a wonderful combination game that uses the computer and a book. Teens can play by themselves or in a 2-player game. As the name indicates it is also bizarre, disgusting and nasty so teens love it. It is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
AristoPlay Mars 2020 game - A race to Mars. It's a race to Mars in the year 2020. This game is for 2-6 players and has over 550 space travel and astronomy questions, endorsed by Jack Lousma, U.S. Astronaut! This is actually a fun game to play. Each player is an astronaut. Astronauts choose a spaceship and a crewmember and try to land on Mars first. This game is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Cogno Deep Worlds Game. This game is for 2 to 6 players and takes 30-50 minutes to play. This game looks like it is fun to play and you learn all about space as you play. How do you play game? Pick your favourite alien game piece; there are 8 wild looking pieces each with different capabilities and personalities. Be the first to collect three fuel cells by answering fun, unusual science questions. The questions are not trivia; they're about space and the universe. Avoid the Alien Whirlpool, Deep Trench, and survive the DiveZones, using strategy to race others safely back to the beach. Leave the main board and enter the Parallel Universe where anything can happen. You might get lucky and suck another player in. And use your greatest weapon wisely - the Time Machine Token. Free inside every game is the 28-page "Book of Y" which reveals the science behind every one of the board game's 261 questions, in fun, easy to understand language. This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Educational Insights Bioviva. Ecological Adventure Game. This game is for 2 – 6 players. Bioviva is an Eco-Trivia mind challenging game that is fun to play as you learn all about ecology. It does not sound like a lot of fun, until you see some of the questions. Here are a couple questions. Do you know which "polluted" city sells fresh air by the pound? What ice cream flavor comes from an orchid? Which spider is a true "quarter pounder"? How about which plant prevents tooth decay? Which U.S. city has the most polluted air? Or which animal spits blood from its eyes? This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
6) Slime: How much fun is it to play with slime, even older teens enjoy these projects and kits.
Slinky Science Slime Science. Mini-Lab. Your teen can make 5 different kinds of slime with this kit. He or she will learn the science behind the ooey, gooey, ooze. They can create a jiggle slime, a sticky ooze that can glue things together, a mystery material that's solid one minute, liquid the next, a rubbery, stretchy putty, and a classic horror-movie slime. This kit is $9.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Scientific Explorer Sci-Fi Slime. Teens learn about hydrophilic polymers while mixing up gobs and gobs of slime. A few of the slimes they can make are heat sensitive color changing slime, slime that glows in the dark, or one that moves towards magnets. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
7) Edible kits: Teens get to eat or drink their experiments.
Make your own bubble gum kits. Teens get to learn how bubble gum is made, and what it is made of and then they get to try their experiments. This can be a lot of fun. I found two kits that are great and both are $12.95.
Bubble Gum Kit. The kit is at www.stevespanglerscience.com.
Scientific Explorer Bubble Gum Fun. This kit is at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Scientific Explorer Ice Cream Science. Teens get to create their own ice cream using science and a T-shirt. This is a fun and tasty gift. The best part is that they learn all about solids, liquids, and gases as they experiment with making ice cream. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com
8) Just for fun science gift: It is nice to give gifts that are just fun even though they revolve around science.
Giant Plush Microbes is a plush microbe 1,000,000 times bigger then the real thing. They are actually cute. The only time someone will thank you for giving him or her a cold. These are funny, and unusual. You can pick from a huge selection of icky things to give her, including a brain cell, mad cow disease or the plague - Black Death. They are $7.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Magic Garden. Art is science and this is science art. This is science but it does not seem to be. The kit comes with mountain, trees and flowers made of paper and a plastic base. Assembled the paper garden, pour the magic garden solution on the paper. Within hours, the flowers bloom, the trees bud and snow appears on the mountain. This spectacular scene and its metamorphoses is fun to watch. This kit is $5.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
AntWorks - Space Age Ant Habitat. This just looks cool. This is just one of those things that has to be seen. I have to say I don’t actually like ants but I like this ant habitat. AntWorks is based on a 2003 NASA Space Shuttle experiment to study animal life in space and test how ants successfully tunnel in micro gravity. The AntWorks Gel (Non Toxic) is complete with nutrients to promote healthy growth in the new colony. This kit is $29.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Wear it: Teens love clothing. I have found some science themed clothing suitable for both the older and younger teens. I have only listed t-shirts though I did find some hoodies and hats.
The Periodic Table T-Shirt. The 7-color Periodic Table black t-shirt is made from 100% cotton and glows-in-the-dark. This shirt is $16.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Heavy Metal T-shirt is 100% cotton heavyweight black tee with white and red depictions of 11 heavy metals from copper to bismuth doodled in the style of a 16-year-old metalhead. The shirt is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Caffeine Molecule and Capsaicin Molecule T-shirts are great for both male and female teens. The caffeine molecule is printed in lime green on a navy shirt. The capsaicin molecule is printed in bright red on a maroon shirt. Both can be found at www.thinkgeek.com for $14.99.
Chocolate molecule ladies t-shirt. The Theobromine molecule is printed in magenta on a dark chocolate colored shirt and it is $17.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
"Actually, I AM a Rocket Scientist" T-Shirt is $19.95 at www.findgift.com.
“You Are Here” 100% cotton heavyweight black t-shirt. On the front, a view of the Milky Way galaxy with a sign that reads "You are Here" pointing in the general direction of Earth. The shirt is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
2) Science Books and software packages: Always interesting and you can find some with quite a few more scientific experiments and information then are found in kits and are often less expensive then kits.
MythBusters: Don't Try This at Home book. This is a very popular show, its science but fun science. I am a huge fan of the show and even though the experiments are not done in the traditional scientific manner it is still science and very interesting. Not to mention very entertaining. Each chapter tackles a different myth, urban legend, or wives tale and gives an experiment a teen can do that's related to the topic. There's also BrainBusters true and false quiz for each chapter cool facts about stuff. $12.99 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Crime Scene Investigation. Learn how evidence from a crime scene is magnified, run through machines, separated into parts, and examined with x-rays and lasers as computer experts, forensic botanists, artists, microbiologists, dentists, forensic anthropologists, and chemists work to catch crooks, killers, counterfeiters, and computer hackers. Then hone your own reasoning skills to solve crimes from police case files. I am a CSI fan and think that this book would be great for any one who is a fan of the shows. This is for any CSI wanabe. This book is $15.84 at www.sargentwelch.ca.
Janice VanCleave book 200 Gooey, Slippery, Slimy, Weird and Fun Experiments book. This book asks question that are answered through the sciences of physics, earth science, chemistry, biology, and astronomy with 200 safe and low-cost experiments that can be performed at home or in the classroom. This book is $10.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
"The Thomas Edison Book of Easy and Incredible Experiments", by James Cook. This is great for some one who is interested in general science. A great project book with 64 Edison experiments in physics, electricity, chemistry and energy. Includes full background information, scientific principles, procedures and expected results. Most experiments can be completed with household materials. This book is $14.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com
Usborne Science Encyclopedia. This is a great encyclopedia with tones of useful information on all science disciplines, over 8 sections with 20 major topics in each. It even has 140 experiment and activity ideas to do.
This book is $19.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
A+ Projects in Earth Science book By Janice VanCleave. This book explores 30 important earth science topics through hands-on experiments. Topic categories include mapping the earth, the earth in space, composition of the earth, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. The book is $12.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Starry Night Enthusiast Astronomy Software. This software provides a comprehensive astronomy course. Using 3D graphics this software shows stars visible from a backyard to distant galaxies deep in space. You can also view live images from special observation equipment via the Internet, keep track of upcoming events, create videos and files to easily view an event again later and read detailed information about each of the 2.5 million celestial objects. This software is $79.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
3) Space and space travel: Space and rockets have been popular since before we landed on the Moon. Now that they are building space stations and talking about going to Mars it is only increasing in popularity.
Space Station 3 Crystals Kit. This kit will teach your teen how the ISS is constructed, why astronauts will grow crystals in space, and how to create their own dazzling collection of 3 sparkling crystals, Emerald, Quartz, and Amethyst, right at home. This kit is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Star Pocket Accurate pocket size star finder to identify 70 constellations and 42 main stars. This kit includes 2 star maps, one for each hemisphere, 4 latitude attachments, built-in compass, protective sleeve, and an instruction booklet. It is $29.95 at www.physlink.com.
Hydrogen Fuel Rocket Kit. This is to make a rocket that runs on hydrogen fuel. This new hydrogen fuel technology uses water to generate the hydrogen fuel needed to thrust a sleek rocket 200 feet into the sky. The Hydrogen Fuel Rocket is a wonderful mixture of science and fun. This kit is $39.95 at www.physlink.com.
Astro Pack. This handy pack is a great tool for the beginning astronomy hobbyist. It includes a planisphere that shows the positions of the stars and constellations for any hour in the year; a book on how to choose, set up, and use a telescope; a month-by-month guide to the night sky; and a star chart that contains detailed comprehensive maps of the heavens. This is $21.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Astrolabe Kit. Use this handy device to determine the declination (elevation) and azimuth (horizontal arc) of any star or celestial body. You provide a compass. Astrolabes have been used in navigation for more than 2000 years, although their heyday was during the explorations of the 1400-1500s. Now the Global Positioning System has eliminated the need to rely on the stars for navigation, but using an astrolabe is still a fun astronomy activity! Instructions are printed right on the plastic body. This is $13.50 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Home Planetarium. This unique Space Theater home planetarium enhances your astronomy studies by projecting star positions as white points of light onto any wall or ceiling. Positions are accurate for each day of the year. The home planetarium includes five changeable constellation masks that show 5-7 constellations for each season plus circum-polar (unsetting northern) stars. This planetarium includes a 32-page activity guide with planet locator tables and an instructional audio CD with facts and ancient stories about the night sky, plus set up and viewing tips for each mask. This is $27.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
4) Cars and robots: There are a lot of advances in solar and robotic technology every day. There are new science projects in both these fields available all the time. I have found some that look like a lot of fun and are educational.
OWI Robots Amphibious Solar Vehicle kit. It is a toy vehicle that works on land and on water and uses solar power. As a teen builds this vehicle they will be learning what materials solar batteries are made from and the characteristics of solar batteries, advantages, and disadvantages of solar power and robotics. This is a non-soldering robot building kit recommended for beginners. No batteries required, it's solar powered and the solar cell is included. Screwdriver and pliers are required for assembly. This kit is $38.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
Solar Grasshopper. This is an easy to build mini-robot that runs on solar power. It comes with all the pieces your teen will need plus detailed diagrams and instructions. Assembly time is approximately 15 minutes and it does not involve any soldering. This kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
Intelligent Fuel Cell Car. The Car Kit Manual features experiments and background information to help your teen explore the history and future of emerging fuel cell technology. The Intelligent Fuel Cell Car is powered by the PEM Reversible Fuel Cell, which safely converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy. The clear plastic "intelligent" car backs up and turns 90 degrees when it hits a barrier. This kit is $79.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Elenco Photon Solar Racer Kit. This is such a cool kit. It is a toy race car that runs on solar power. Teens get to build it and learn about solar energy and how to convert it to useful applications, or at least fun ones. No soldering, no batteries needed for the science kit. Comes with high-energy solar panel. The solar car comes in clear plastic. The car can be painted any color scheme that you desire (paint is not supplied). The body of Photon is even made from recycled pop bottles. This kit is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Bioloid Humanoid Robotics Kit. The Bioloid can be configured as the default human form, or assembled into any one of dozens of different robotic creatures. 18 servos, a full motion editor and visual programming environment allow a teen to make the Bioloid interact with it's surroundings while performing complex movements that put other toy robots to shame. The Bioloid comes with several example programs to make it walk, avoid obstacles and interact with sound. The sensor module in the head of the robot features an IrDA receiver (for communicating with other robots via infrared), three proximity sensors (left, right and front) that can measure distance and luminosity, a microphone for sound detection and a piezo-electric speaker that can be used to play musical scales or generate simple beeping sounds. Robot can be programmed custom movements and behavior logic. This kit is $899.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Ultimate Robot Kit All you need to make 5 amazing robots. Ultimate Robot Kit comes with everything you need to build four robots: from plastic gears to a power pod, from cardboard frames to instruction cards with detailed photographs. Once you’ve mastered the BounceBot, CreepycrawlyBot, KnotBot and Gobblebot, use the extra pieces and create a fifth robot of your own design. This kit is $29.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
5) Science games: It is always great to learn when you are playing a game you are enjoying. You often don’t even realise how much you are learning.
Smart Lab Science & Nature Computer-Book Challenge. This is a wonderful combination game that uses the computer and a book. Teens can play by themselves or in a 2-player game. This game is fun and they learn all about nature and science as they play. Here is an example of some of the questions. What is the only rock that floats in water? What animal sleeps just two hours at a time, and always keeps an eye open? Where did the world's first industrial robot go to work? This game is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Smart Lab Weird & Gross Computer-Book Challenge. This is a wonderful combination game that uses the computer and a book. Teens can play by themselves or in a 2-player game. As the name indicates it is also bizarre, disgusting and nasty so teens love it. It is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
AristoPlay Mars 2020 game - A race to Mars. It's a race to Mars in the year 2020. This game is for 2-6 players and has over 550 space travel and astronomy questions, endorsed by Jack Lousma, U.S. Astronaut! This is actually a fun game to play. Each player is an astronaut. Astronauts choose a spaceship and a crewmember and try to land on Mars first. This game is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Cogno Deep Worlds Game. This game is for 2 to 6 players and takes 30-50 minutes to play. This game looks like it is fun to play and you learn all about space as you play. How do you play game? Pick your favourite alien game piece; there are 8 wild looking pieces each with different capabilities and personalities. Be the first to collect three fuel cells by answering fun, unusual science questions. The questions are not trivia; they're about space and the universe. Avoid the Alien Whirlpool, Deep Trench, and survive the DiveZones, using strategy to race others safely back to the beach. Leave the main board and enter the Parallel Universe where anything can happen. You might get lucky and suck another player in. And use your greatest weapon wisely - the Time Machine Token. Free inside every game is the 28-page "Book of Y" which reveals the science behind every one of the board game's 261 questions, in fun, easy to understand language. This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Educational Insights Bioviva. Ecological Adventure Game. This game is for 2 – 6 players. Bioviva is an Eco-Trivia mind challenging game that is fun to play as you learn all about ecology. It does not sound like a lot of fun, until you see some of the questions. Here are a couple questions. Do you know which "polluted" city sells fresh air by the pound? What ice cream flavor comes from an orchid? Which spider is a true "quarter pounder"? How about which plant prevents tooth decay? Which U.S. city has the most polluted air? Or which animal spits blood from its eyes? This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
6) Slime: How much fun is it to play with slime, even older teens enjoy these projects and kits.
Slinky Science Slime Science. Mini-Lab. Your teen can make 5 different kinds of slime with this kit. He or she will learn the science behind the ooey, gooey, ooze. They can create a jiggle slime, a sticky ooze that can glue things together, a mystery material that's solid one minute, liquid the next, a rubbery, stretchy putty, and a classic horror-movie slime. This kit is $9.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Scientific Explorer Sci-Fi Slime. Teens learn about hydrophilic polymers while mixing up gobs and gobs of slime. A few of the slimes they can make are heat sensitive color changing slime, slime that glows in the dark, or one that moves towards magnets. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
7) Edible kits: Teens get to eat or drink their experiments.
Make your own bubble gum kits. Teens get to learn how bubble gum is made, and what it is made of and then they get to try their experiments. This can be a lot of fun. I found two kits that are great and both are $12.95.
Bubble Gum Kit. The kit is at www.stevespanglerscience.com.
Scientific Explorer Bubble Gum Fun. This kit is at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Scientific Explorer Ice Cream Science. Teens get to create their own ice cream using science and a T-shirt. This is a fun and tasty gift. The best part is that they learn all about solids, liquids, and gases as they experiment with making ice cream. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com
8) Just for fun science gift: It is nice to give gifts that are just fun even though they revolve around science.
Giant Plush Microbes is a plush microbe 1,000,000 times bigger then the real thing. They are actually cute. The only time someone will thank you for giving him or her a cold. These are funny, and unusual. You can pick from a huge selection of icky things to give her, including a brain cell, mad cow disease or the plague - Black Death. They are $7.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Magic Garden. Art is science and this is science art. This is science but it does not seem to be. The kit comes with mountain, trees and flowers made of paper and a plastic base. Assembled the paper garden, pour the magic garden solution on the paper. Within hours, the flowers bloom, the trees bud and snow appears on the mountain. This spectacular scene and its metamorphoses is fun to watch. This kit is $5.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
AntWorks - Space Age Ant Habitat. This just looks cool. This is just one of those things that has to be seen. I have to say I don’t actually like ants but I like this ant habitat. AntWorks is based on a 2003 NASA Space Shuttle experiment to study animal life in space and test how ants successfully tunnel in micro gravity. The AntWorks Gel (Non Toxic) is complete with nutrients to promote healthy growth in the new colony. This kit is $29.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Monday, December 17, 2007
Christmas 2007 Digital camera recommendations for teen girls
Digital cameras are very popular Christmas gifts right now as the price has come down and the variety has increased. What Camera you buy will depend on your budget and what the digital camera is for. If the teen girl is very interested in the art of photography you are more likely to be looking at high-end cameras with lots of features then if she is just interested in being able to take pictures of her friends. If some one is serous about photography they have very specific requirements for their camera and that person is the best person to pick the camera. I have made a list of great first time or casual use cameras I would recommend for teen girls. Please note that I looked at Sears and Wal-Mart to give you a good idea of what is available. You will be able to find similar digital cameras under any name brand.
Here is my Christmas 2007 list of Digital camera recommendations for teen girls:
Sears website:
Mini Digital Camera on a key chain. It has 16 MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes. Is available in blue, green or clear and comes with a USB cable and carrying pouch. It does require 1 AAA battery. Current website price $19.99
Innovage Mini Digital Camera with key chain. It takes pictures and can also be used as a Web cam and video camera. It has 243 digital picture capacity and 16 MB internal memory. Current website price $14.99
Digital Camera with 8MG Memory. It has 300K-pixel resolution, and a 5mm lens and an LCD screen. It can hold 26 pictures. It has auto exposure with a 10-second self-timer. It has USB output, and a stand is included. It does require 2 AAA batteries. Current website price: $39.99
Sakar 6.1MP Digital Camera. Has edit On Demand technology crop, add frames, message captions, voice recordings and dates to your photos without a computer.
It also has a 1.5" color TFT screen, 4x digital zoom, and auto flash. It supports SD removable storage and is web cam enabled. It does require 2 AA batteries. Current website price: $79.88
Kodak® Digital Camera C613 has 6 mega pixels, 3X optical zoom, a 2 2/5" LCD screen and digital image stabilization. Is compatible with SDHC memory but that must be bought separately. Current website price: $129.99
Wal-Mart has:
Digital Concepts 3-in-1 Camera Start-up Kit: It comes with Photo Tags CD software a carrying case the user manual and USB connector cable as well as Digital Photography tips for Dummies handbook. Camera has resolution of 0.3 Mega pixels, and has a frame movie mode. It has 64 MB (SDRAM) storage. You can have the flash on or off and there is a Self-timer delay of 10 seconds. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current price $18.84
VistaQuest 1.3MP Digital Key chain Camera comes in pink and blue. This camera takes both still photos and video. The ability to add a SD memory card lets you take more images or longer video clips. The auto power off feature saves battery power. It has 1.3 mega pixels, a black and white LCD, built-in 8MB SD RAM with SD card slot. Software is included ArcSoft PhotoImpression & VideoImpression. You will need to use USB to connect to PC. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $19.96
VistaQuest 3 MP Digital Key chain Camera, Black. It has 3 mega pixels, black and white LCD screen and 16 MB memory with SD memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $34.84
VistaQuest 5 MP VQ-5115 Digital Camera. It has 3.2 mega pixel resolution, 8x digital, 1.5-inch color LCD, a 32 MB internal memory and Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current Price $58.84
Polaroid 5 MP a550 Digital Camera, Black. It has 5.0 mega pixels, 2.0" TFT LCD screen, 4x digital zoom, 16MB built-in storage, SD compatible for expanded memory. This camera can take AVI video clips as well as pictures. It also has Off/auto/red-eye reduction/fill flash, auto white balance settings, and a 10-second self-timer. More importantly it is PC & Mac compatible. It comes with a protective skin, wrist strap, USB cable, the ArcSoft software on a CD-ROM as well as the required 3 AAA batteries. Current price $69.87. * This is my top pick for price and performance.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Here is my Christmas 2007 list of Digital camera recommendations for teen girls:
Sears website:
Mini Digital Camera on a key chain. It has 16 MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes. Is available in blue, green or clear and comes with a USB cable and carrying pouch. It does require 1 AAA battery. Current website price $19.99
Innovage Mini Digital Camera with key chain. It takes pictures and can also be used as a Web cam and video camera. It has 243 digital picture capacity and 16 MB internal memory. Current website price $14.99
Digital Camera with 8MG Memory. It has 300K-pixel resolution, and a 5mm lens and an LCD screen. It can hold 26 pictures. It has auto exposure with a 10-second self-timer. It has USB output, and a stand is included. It does require 2 AAA batteries. Current website price: $39.99
Sakar 6.1MP Digital Camera. Has edit On Demand technology crop, add frames, message captions, voice recordings and dates to your photos without a computer.
It also has a 1.5" color TFT screen, 4x digital zoom, and auto flash. It supports SD removable storage and is web cam enabled. It does require 2 AA batteries. Current website price: $79.88
Kodak® Digital Camera C613 has 6 mega pixels, 3X optical zoom, a 2 2/5" LCD screen and digital image stabilization. Is compatible with SDHC memory but that must be bought separately. Current website price: $129.99
Wal-Mart has:
Digital Concepts 3-in-1 Camera Start-up Kit: It comes with Photo Tags CD software a carrying case the user manual and USB connector cable as well as Digital Photography tips for Dummies handbook. Camera has resolution of 0.3 Mega pixels, and has a frame movie mode. It has 64 MB (SDRAM) storage. You can have the flash on or off and there is a Self-timer delay of 10 seconds. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current price $18.84
VistaQuest 1.3MP Digital Key chain Camera comes in pink and blue. This camera takes both still photos and video. The ability to add a SD memory card lets you take more images or longer video clips. The auto power off feature saves battery power. It has 1.3 mega pixels, a black and white LCD, built-in 8MB SD RAM with SD card slot. Software is included ArcSoft PhotoImpression & VideoImpression. You will need to use USB to connect to PC. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $19.96
VistaQuest 3 MP Digital Key chain Camera, Black. It has 3 mega pixels, black and white LCD screen and 16 MB memory with SD memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $34.84
VistaQuest 5 MP VQ-5115 Digital Camera. It has 3.2 mega pixel resolution, 8x digital, 1.5-inch color LCD, a 32 MB internal memory and Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current Price $58.84
Polaroid 5 MP a550 Digital Camera, Black. It has 5.0 mega pixels, 2.0" TFT LCD screen, 4x digital zoom, 16MB built-in storage, SD compatible for expanded memory. This camera can take AVI video clips as well as pictures. It also has Off/auto/red-eye reduction/fill flash, auto white balance settings, and a 10-second self-timer. More importantly it is PC & Mac compatible. It comes with a protective skin, wrist strap, USB cable, the ArcSoft software on a CD-ROM as well as the required 3 AAA batteries. Current price $69.87. * This is my top pick for price and performance.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Christmas 2007 Chemistry gift ideas for teens
If you have a teenager who likes science and chemistry it may not always be easy to know what to get them. Giving them the typical chemistry set may not seem like much of a Christmas gift. That is until you find what is actually available these days. There is a huge selection of “Wow, that is cool” gifts available for teens interested in chemistry. A few teens not interested in chemistry would even like some of the new chemistry theme gifts available. I have created a list of Christmas 2007 chemistry gift ideas for teens. Just remember you can have fun with these gifts too.
1) Clothing is always popular with teens, and now you can give them a gift that is clothing and chemistry. I am listing some t-shirts I found though there are quite a few other clothing options out there.
Caffeine Molecule and Capsaicin Molecule T-shirts are great for both male and female teens. The caffeine molecule is printed in lime green on a navy shirt. The capsaicin molecule is printed in bright red on a maroon shirt. Both can be found at www.thinkgeek.com for $14.99.
Chocolate molecule ladies t-shirt. The Theobromine molecule is printed in magenta on a dark chocolate colored shirt and it is $17.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
"Actually, I AM a Rocket Scientist" T-Shirt $19.95 www.findgift.com.
Heavy Metal t-shirt that has what looks like band logos but are actually the symbols of heavy metal. It is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
The Periodic Table T-Shirt. The 7-color Periodic Table glows in the dark and is printed on a 100% cotton black t-shirt. It is $16.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
2) Making cool stuff is what chemistry is all about. I found some chemistry kits that are all about fun and learning. These kits are designed to capture a teenager’s interest even if they are not already into science.
Glowing Gel Experiment Kit. This kit is to make strange and goofy substances that flow, stretch, break and bounce, and eco-foam fizzle or slimy ooze. Even stuff that glows on its own. They learn about the chemistry of gels, polymers, states of matter and phosphorescence. This is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Cool Blue Light Experiment Kit. Make a cool blue light appear in the dark or make a dirty penny glow and more experiments. Teenagers learn about chemiluminescence, how fireflies light up and the real quantum leap with this neat chemistry kit. Kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
3) Edible Chemistry. Chemistry experiments a teenager can eat and drink when they are done. They actually learn about the chemistry of and what is in what they are eating.
Fizz Wizard Reaction Kit. Make color changing foaming jelly things and learn about the chemistry behind the reactions. Make fizzing drinks and then make them change colors. Pull tasty gels from a solution. Kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
Thames & Kosmos Candy Factory Chemistry set. With this set Teens make candy and learn about the chemistry of crystals and why things taste good or bad. They experiment with the art of making candy, from creating the tasty ingredients to shaping the candies with the included molds and shape cutters, and using the candy thermometer, spatula, dipping fork and various other tools to form and coat your candies. You can get this kit for $42.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Bubble gum kits are popular and there are a lot of them out there. Here are three kits that teach and are fun.
Bubble Gum Kit at www.stevespanglerscience.com for $12.95.
Scientific Explorer Bubble Gum Fun at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com for $12.95.
Scientific Explorer Ultimate Gum Kit – kids create their own gum and gum flavours. $27.95 www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
4) Chemistry of cosmology is popular, and not just as a gift for teen girls. You don’t have to use it to be interested in creating it. Making stuff is always fun and some of the best chemists work in the cosmetic and perfume fields.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. This is all about learning what is in skin care products and what they actually do. A teenager will learn about basic dermatology and the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Then they get to make some skin care products as experiments. They also learn how skin care products are applied as well as the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. This kit is $54.95 at www.discoverthis.com and $54.99 at www.target.com.
Perfume Science Experiment Kit - Thames and Kosmos. This is a great gift that lets a teen design and develop their own personal perfume, learning the biology, chemistry and techniques to make fragrances. This kit can is $59.95 at www.physlink.com/estore and $54.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
Scientific Explorer French Spa Body Lotion – Teens learn about what is in French body lotions, and use chemistry to create their own designs. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
5) Just about Chemistry.
Chem C3000 Chemistry Set $189.95 www.discoverthis.com Ages 12 and up.
CHEM C3000 is an excellent way to prepare for high-school level, and even college level, chemistry.
225g x 0.1g Postal Hanging Digital Scale is perfect for Chemistry students and teachers. $12.95 www.physlink.com. This is a great portable scale.
Periodic Table Placemat, a science-mat that shows all 112 elements. It is $2.95 at www.physlink.com.
Periodic Table Refrigerator Magnets. Each element is a magnet. It is $9.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
6) If your teen is seriously into chemistry you may not want to give them a kit. Instead have them go to a web site like ScienceLab, www.sciencelab.com. It is a source for laboratory equipment, specialty chemicals and science educational products. They have a wide range of products in chemicals and reagents, pH meters, laboratory scales, refractometers, microscopes, laboratory glassware and many other scientific supplies. This way they can make up a wish list of what they actually want or need.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Clothing is always popular with teens, and now you can give them a gift that is clothing and chemistry. I am listing some t-shirts I found though there are quite a few other clothing options out there.
Caffeine Molecule and Capsaicin Molecule T-shirts are great for both male and female teens. The caffeine molecule is printed in lime green on a navy shirt. The capsaicin molecule is printed in bright red on a maroon shirt. Both can be found at www.thinkgeek.com for $14.99.
Chocolate molecule ladies t-shirt. The Theobromine molecule is printed in magenta on a dark chocolate colored shirt and it is $17.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
"Actually, I AM a Rocket Scientist" T-Shirt $19.95 www.findgift.com.
Heavy Metal t-shirt that has what looks like band logos but are actually the symbols of heavy metal. It is $16.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
The Periodic Table T-Shirt. The 7-color Periodic Table glows in the dark and is printed on a 100% cotton black t-shirt. It is $16.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
2) Making cool stuff is what chemistry is all about. I found some chemistry kits that are all about fun and learning. These kits are designed to capture a teenager’s interest even if they are not already into science.
Glowing Gel Experiment Kit. This kit is to make strange and goofy substances that flow, stretch, break and bounce, and eco-foam fizzle or slimy ooze. Even stuff that glows on its own. They learn about the chemistry of gels, polymers, states of matter and phosphorescence. This is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Cool Blue Light Experiment Kit. Make a cool blue light appear in the dark or make a dirty penny glow and more experiments. Teenagers learn about chemiluminescence, how fireflies light up and the real quantum leap with this neat chemistry kit. Kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
3) Edible Chemistry. Chemistry experiments a teenager can eat and drink when they are done. They actually learn about the chemistry of and what is in what they are eating.
Fizz Wizard Reaction Kit. Make color changing foaming jelly things and learn about the chemistry behind the reactions. Make fizzing drinks and then make them change colors. Pull tasty gels from a solution. Kit is $12.95 at www.physlink.com.
Thames & Kosmos Candy Factory Chemistry set. With this set Teens make candy and learn about the chemistry of crystals and why things taste good or bad. They experiment with the art of making candy, from creating the tasty ingredients to shaping the candies with the included molds and shape cutters, and using the candy thermometer, spatula, dipping fork and various other tools to form and coat your candies. You can get this kit for $42.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Bubble gum kits are popular and there are a lot of them out there. Here are three kits that teach and are fun.
Bubble Gum Kit at www.stevespanglerscience.com for $12.95.
Scientific Explorer Bubble Gum Fun at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com for $12.95.
Scientific Explorer Ultimate Gum Kit – kids create their own gum and gum flavours. $27.95 www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
4) Chemistry of cosmology is popular, and not just as a gift for teen girls. You don’t have to use it to be interested in creating it. Making stuff is always fun and some of the best chemists work in the cosmetic and perfume fields.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. This is all about learning what is in skin care products and what they actually do. A teenager will learn about basic dermatology and the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Then they get to make some skin care products as experiments. They also learn how skin care products are applied as well as the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. This kit is $54.95 at www.discoverthis.com and $54.99 at www.target.com.
Perfume Science Experiment Kit - Thames and Kosmos. This is a great gift that lets a teen design and develop their own personal perfume, learning the biology, chemistry and techniques to make fragrances. This kit can is $59.95 at www.physlink.com/estore and $54.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
Scientific Explorer French Spa Body Lotion – Teens learn about what is in French body lotions, and use chemistry to create their own designs. This kit is $17.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
5) Just about Chemistry.
Chem C3000 Chemistry Set $189.95 www.discoverthis.com Ages 12 and up.
CHEM C3000 is an excellent way to prepare for high-school level, and even college level, chemistry.
225g x 0.1g Postal Hanging Digital Scale is perfect for Chemistry students and teachers. $12.95 www.physlink.com. This is a great portable scale.
Periodic Table Placemat, a science-mat that shows all 112 elements. It is $2.95 at www.physlink.com.
Periodic Table Refrigerator Magnets. Each element is a magnet. It is $9.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
6) If your teen is seriously into chemistry you may not want to give them a kit. Instead have them go to a web site like ScienceLab, www.sciencelab.com. It is a source for laboratory equipment, specialty chemicals and science educational products. They have a wide range of products in chemicals and reagents, pH meters, laboratory scales, refractometers, microscopes, laboratory glassware and many other scientific supplies. This way they can make up a wish list of what they actually want or need.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Unique and creative Christmas gift ideas for teen girl
It is always fun to be able to give an unusual or unexpected Christmas gift. It can be hard to find a gift that is going to stand apart from all the other gifts. Here is a list of unique and creative Christmas gift ideas for a teen girl.
1) Perfume Science Experiment Kit by Thames and Kosmos $59.95 www.sciencelab.com
Perfume is a common gift for teen girls. Don’t give her a bottle of perfume instead let her design her own perfume. Perfume Science introduces her the biology, chemistry and techniques behind fragrance design. This kit is a complete perfumer’s laboratory including 8 high-quality perfume oils, decorative flacons (small bottles) for storing her perfume creations and important tools of the trade. The 48-page full-color manual is full of information about the biology of smelling, the chemistry of perfumes, the fine fragrance industry and the history of perfumes.
2) Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. $54.95
www.discoverthis.com and www.target.com
Make up is also a common gift for teen girls. Here is a twist on giving make up. She has to make it herself. This is actually a great gift, as she will learn how to care for her skin, hair and nails so they are healthy and radiant. She will learn basic dermatology and then learn about the chemistry of oils, gels, and lotions. Using that information and what is provide in the kit she can start making her own cosmetics. The kit will also teach her how to apply her creations to her body, face, lips, nails and eyes. It also teaches her the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care.
3) Pocket Plant Mini Pet Cactus $8.99 www.thinkgeek.com
You have to see this one to believe it. It is a small live pet cactus in a little self contained greenhouse that she can attach to her key chain, or cell phone, or any thing. All she has to do it is water it once a month for about a minute (instructions on packaging). Each cactus comes with a strap to attach to her jacket, cell phone. It also has an adhesive back to attach to a wall, or her monitor, or any thing she can think of.
4) Giant Plush Microbes $7.99 www.thinkgeek.com
It is a plush microbe 1,000,000 times bigger then the real thing. They are actually cute. The only time some one will thank you for giving them a cold. These are funny, and unusual. You can pick from a huge selection of icky things to give her, including a brain cell, mad cow disease or the plague - Black Death.
5) Handcrafted or one-of-a-kind jewelry is a great way to find a gift that is as uniquely individual as she is. Especially if you can tell her no one else has one, or that you had it made for her. There are lots of craft shows around Christmas time that you can find some wonderful artists who work in jewelry. If you just don’t have time to get to a craft show take a look on the Internet. Quite a few jewelry crafters have their own web sites. You can often find some great pieces at outstanding prices. You can find handcrafted one-of-a-kind jewelry starting under $20.00 all the way up to in the $100’s. It all depends on what you are looking for. Some of the jewelry artist will let you design a necklace or bracelet for her and they will make for you. It is easer to find someone to do this at a craft show but several websites give you this option. Here are some sites that have unique handcrafted jewelry.
www.simplystacy.net This jewelry artist will design and make a custom piece of jewelry, though she does have some ready-made pieces. She uses Swarovski crystals, Swarovski pearls, freshwater pearls, Sterling Silver, Tibetian Silver, Bali Silver & Gold Plated or Gold-filled beads.
www.pureartisan.com Stylish Eco-Friendly handcrafted jewelry made around the world starting around the $30.00 range.
www.djsgemstones.com use semi precious stone made into cabochons, free forms and faceted stones to make jewelry starting around the $20.00 range.
www.medievalmagic.ca has handcrafted one-of-a-kind beaded necklaces around the $20.00 range.
www.fyreandice.com has handcrafted chainmaille jewellery starting at $25.00 and these are very unique.
www.nicolasjewelleryshop.com handmade jewelry, using beads and materials such as Czech glass, Swarovski crystals, handmade Lampwork beads, Glass, Semi-precious stones and Pearls from around the world. Price range starting at $25.00.
www.jewelrydesignsbysusan.com Handcrafted designs using stones such as Onyx, Turquoise, Quartz, Freshwater Pearls and Swarovski Crystals. All embellishments are Sterling Silver. Starting around the $30.00 range.
www.charmsoflight.com beautiful and unique, handcrafted gemstone Healing Jewellery. Each piece is Reiki energised to further enhance the natural healing properties of the gemstones, which will enable you to help yourself attain physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing
6) Novelty items are always fun and creative gifts.
A personalized candy bar wrapper $9.95 www.freecandybarwrapper.com/personalizedwrappers.htm
This is actually fun because you provide all the information you want to show up on the wrapper. You can put a lot of funny or touching comments on the wrapper for her to read on Christmas. You just put it over her favourite candy bar and watch her face when she gets a candy bar named after her, or with a message for her.
Star named after her at the International Star Registry www.starregistry.com $54.00
She will get a beautiful 12" X 16" full color parchment certificate personalized with the star name, date and coordinates. A Personalized 12" X 16" sky chart containing the star name, star date, the constellation and the location circled in red where the star is in the sky. A booklet on astronomy written by a professional astronomer with additional sky charts. A letter of congratulations/memorial for the recipient.
Buy property for her on the Moon, Mars, Venus, Io, or Mercury www.lunarembassy.com
The Lunar Embassy are the founders and leaders of the extraterrestrial real estate market and will be happy to sell you land on the Moon, Mars, Venus, Io, or Mercury. The will automatically make available to you, a temporary downloadable document that you can give her as a gift incase the mail does not arrive timely.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Perfume Science Experiment Kit by Thames and Kosmos $59.95 www.sciencelab.com
Perfume is a common gift for teen girls. Don’t give her a bottle of perfume instead let her design her own perfume. Perfume Science introduces her the biology, chemistry and techniques behind fragrance design. This kit is a complete perfumer’s laboratory including 8 high-quality perfume oils, decorative flacons (small bottles) for storing her perfume creations and important tools of the trade. The 48-page full-color manual is full of information about the biology of smelling, the chemistry of perfumes, the fine fragrance industry and the history of perfumes.
2) Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. $54.95
www.discoverthis.com and www.target.com
Make up is also a common gift for teen girls. Here is a twist on giving make up. She has to make it herself. This is actually a great gift, as she will learn how to care for her skin, hair and nails so they are healthy and radiant. She will learn basic dermatology and then learn about the chemistry of oils, gels, and lotions. Using that information and what is provide in the kit she can start making her own cosmetics. The kit will also teach her how to apply her creations to her body, face, lips, nails and eyes. It also teaches her the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care.
3) Pocket Plant Mini Pet Cactus $8.99 www.thinkgeek.com
You have to see this one to believe it. It is a small live pet cactus in a little self contained greenhouse that she can attach to her key chain, or cell phone, or any thing. All she has to do it is water it once a month for about a minute (instructions on packaging). Each cactus comes with a strap to attach to her jacket, cell phone. It also has an adhesive back to attach to a wall, or her monitor, or any thing she can think of.
4) Giant Plush Microbes $7.99 www.thinkgeek.com
It is a plush microbe 1,000,000 times bigger then the real thing. They are actually cute. The only time some one will thank you for giving them a cold. These are funny, and unusual. You can pick from a huge selection of icky things to give her, including a brain cell, mad cow disease or the plague - Black Death.
5) Handcrafted or one-of-a-kind jewelry is a great way to find a gift that is as uniquely individual as she is. Especially if you can tell her no one else has one, or that you had it made for her. There are lots of craft shows around Christmas time that you can find some wonderful artists who work in jewelry. If you just don’t have time to get to a craft show take a look on the Internet. Quite a few jewelry crafters have their own web sites. You can often find some great pieces at outstanding prices. You can find handcrafted one-of-a-kind jewelry starting under $20.00 all the way up to in the $100’s. It all depends on what you are looking for. Some of the jewelry artist will let you design a necklace or bracelet for her and they will make for you. It is easer to find someone to do this at a craft show but several websites give you this option. Here are some sites that have unique handcrafted jewelry.
www.simplystacy.net This jewelry artist will design and make a custom piece of jewelry, though she does have some ready-made pieces. She uses Swarovski crystals, Swarovski pearls, freshwater pearls, Sterling Silver, Tibetian Silver, Bali Silver & Gold Plated or Gold-filled beads.
www.pureartisan.com Stylish Eco-Friendly handcrafted jewelry made around the world starting around the $30.00 range.
www.djsgemstones.com use semi precious stone made into cabochons, free forms and faceted stones to make jewelry starting around the $20.00 range.
www.medievalmagic.ca has handcrafted one-of-a-kind beaded necklaces around the $20.00 range.
www.fyreandice.com has handcrafted chainmaille jewellery starting at $25.00 and these are very unique.
www.nicolasjewelleryshop.com handmade jewelry, using beads and materials such as Czech glass, Swarovski crystals, handmade Lampwork beads, Glass, Semi-precious stones and Pearls from around the world. Price range starting at $25.00.
www.jewelrydesignsbysusan.com Handcrafted designs using stones such as Onyx, Turquoise, Quartz, Freshwater Pearls and Swarovski Crystals. All embellishments are Sterling Silver. Starting around the $30.00 range.
www.charmsoflight.com beautiful and unique, handcrafted gemstone Healing Jewellery. Each piece is Reiki energised to further enhance the natural healing properties of the gemstones, which will enable you to help yourself attain physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing
6) Novelty items are always fun and creative gifts.
A personalized candy bar wrapper $9.95 www.freecandybarwrapper.com/personalizedwrappers.htm
This is actually fun because you provide all the information you want to show up on the wrapper. You can put a lot of funny or touching comments on the wrapper for her to read on Christmas. You just put it over her favourite candy bar and watch her face when she gets a candy bar named after her, or with a message for her.
Star named after her at the International Star Registry www.starregistry.com $54.00
She will get a beautiful 12" X 16" full color parchment certificate personalized with the star name, date and coordinates. A Personalized 12" X 16" sky chart containing the star name, star date, the constellation and the location circled in red where the star is in the sky. A booklet on astronomy written by a professional astronomer with additional sky charts. A letter of congratulations/memorial for the recipient.
Buy property for her on the Moon, Mars, Venus, Io, or Mercury www.lunarembassy.com
The Lunar Embassy are the founders and leaders of the extraterrestrial real estate market and will be happy to sell you land on the Moon, Mars, Venus, Io, or Mercury. The will automatically make available to you, a temporary downloadable document that you can give her as a gift incase the mail does not arrive timely.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Christmas 2007 Astronomy gift ideas for teens
If you have a teenager interested in Astronomy then you have a lot of different gift options. Some times it can be hard to choose from all the great gifts out there. It can also be hard to find the right gift for a teen. Some of the gifts available are for beginners, but are marketed for kids. I have created a list of top Christmas 2007 Astronomy gift ideas for teens.
1) Telescopes, Binoculars, and Accessories:
Telescope, Explorer. This handheld telescope is for beginners. Just pick it up, sight an object, push/pull the focus tube and enjoy bright, clear images of far-off places. Durable plastic telescope magnifies objects 30X. Objective lens is 30mm. This is $12.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Observer 70mm Refractor Telescope. This is a great refractor telescope that is very portable and has an easy-to-use yet sturdy Altazimuth mount. It provides an upright image and can be used for both terrestrial and celestial viewing. This 70mm f/10 telescope has a light grasp of 5.9 square inches, 100 times the light of the unaided human eye and 36% more light than a 60mm reflector telescope. More light means you will see more stars and galaxies and greater detail of the moon and planets. This telescope is $129.00 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Telescope Digital Photo Adapter. This lets you attach a digital camera to most telescopes and spotting scopes and take digital photos. This is $19.95 at www.physlink.com.
Astro Pack. This pack is a great tool for the beginning astronomy hobbyist. It includes a planisphere that shows the positions of the stars and constellations for any hour in the year; a book on how to choose, set up, and use a telescope; a month-by-month guide to the night sky; and a star chart that contains detailed comprehensive maps of the heavens. This is $21.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Backyard Stars Guide. This fold-out guide is used to identify the stars from your own backyard on any reasonably clear night, year-round. The stars identified in this guide are those easily seen without binoculars or a telescope. Includes charts for each season and for the moon. This is $4.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
2) Gift Certificates:
You can always pick up gift cards so that they can pick out what they want. However the best gift card is the Slooh 50 min Telescope Card. This is a pre-paid card gives them 50 minutes spectacular deep space objects streamed real-time live to your computer from powerful telescopes located high on a mountain off the coast of Africa. This is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
3) Books, Maps, software and Calendars:
A subscription to “Astronomy”. “Astronomy” is the top astronomy magazine. Here is the web site www.astronomy.com to get the subscription.
“What's Out Tonight?” This is a 50 Year Astronomy Field Guide 2000 to 2050 (Paperback). “What's Out Tonight?” is a popular celestial almanac and astronomy field guide provides the enthusiast, beginner or the seasoned amateur with a snapshot of the heavens until 2050. There are star charts of the entire sky as well as tables indicating the Planets that are out, the phase of the Moon, meteor showers and more. At a glance you will know what is happening in the night sky for 50 years. This book is $39.95 at www.iglou.com.
Star Pocket. This is an accurate pocket size star finder to identify 70 constellations and 42 main stars. This kit includes 2 star maps, one for each hemisphere, 4 latitude attachments, built-in compass, protective sleeve, and an instruction booklet. It is $29.95 at www.physlink.com.
Starry Night Enthusiast Astronomy Software. This software provides a comprehensive astronomy course. The 3D graphics will take you on a journey from the stars visible in your backyard to distant galaxies deep in space. You can also view live images from special observation equipment via the Internet, keep track of upcoming events, create videos and files to easily view an event again later and read detailed information about each of the 2.5 million celestial objects. This software is $79.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Hubble Picture CD. This feature packed CD-ROM that works on both PC and Mac computers includes 450+ pictures & captions, educational text of a full paragraph on each image, screen saver with 20 Hubble images to enhance your screen. Image Browser software allows you to easily review the photos, search & read detailed captions or print the catalog for handy reference. Also includes drag and drop features for publishing programs. This CD is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Deep Space iCD. This CD is filled with hundreds of images and amazing facts; this multi-media program lets you explore space with the very best images from the Hubble Space Telescope. This CD features a complete collection of Hubble images from the Space Telescope Science Institute's, plus 32 superb earth-based astronomical photographs. This is $19.95 at www.physlink.com.
Calendars with night skies or even pictures from space can be found almost any place. Some of them will even have reminders of important viewing events and historical date for astronomy. Calendars can make great gifts.
4) DVD’s:
The Mysteries of the Cosmos DVD Set. Explore some of the greatest mysteries in the Universe. From the Big Bang to the Hubble telescope, this stunning collection brings you up close and personal to the mysteries and wonders of space. Learn about current research being performed by the greatest minds in space exploration. Witness stunning animation, actual satellite photography and archival NASA footage that bring the farthest reaches of the Universe. This DVD set is $29.95 at http://shopping.discovery.com.
The Stars DVD Set. This set has three star DVD’s:
“Death Star”, Learn how these violet explosions could have the power to eradicate life in an entire galaxy.
“Death of a Star”, Experience one of the most violent celestial events since the creation of the universe.
“Runaway Universe”, Join a dramatic quest to unlock the secrets of the universe, including the mysterious "dark energy."
This set is $39.95 at http://shopping.discovery.com.
5) Models and posters:
Motorized Solar System Mobile Kit. This solar system stretches a massive 42 inches in diameter, and is completely remote controlled. The kit mounts to the ceiling of any room and contains an audio tour CD that teaches about the planets. As a bonus, the remote control provided contains a built-in laser pointer for comets and swooshing shooting stars. This kit is $39.95 at www.physlink.com.
Map Of The Sky Poster. Both north and south night skies are included in this poster plus star data. Star data included: magnitude, surface temperature, zodiac constelations, etc. Poster size: 38.5in x 26.75in. This poster is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
The Solar Flare and Earths Magnetosphere Poster is a great new poster that allows you to view these two amazing subjects. It is an awesome poster. The poster is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
6) Home Planetariums:
Home Planetarium. This Space Theater home planetarium projects star positions as white points of light onto any wall or ceiling. Positions are accurate for each day of the year. The home planetarium includes five changeable constellation masks that show 5-7 constellations for each season plus circum-polar (unsetting northern) stars. This is $27.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
7) Games:
The MONOPOLY: Night Sky Edition brings the wonders of the universe right into your living room. Move around the game board as you purchase comets, planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies and build observatories. Comes with six custom pewter tokens (Meade telescope, Hubble space telescope, binoculars, radio dish, observatory, Mars Rover) and custom dice. Mars and Moon cards replace classic Chance and Community Chest cards, respectively. Read all about the different wonders featured on the game board. This game is $34.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
AristoPlay Mars 2020 game - A race to Mars. It's a race to Mars in the year 2020. This game is for 2-6 players and has over 550 space travel and astronomy questions, endorsed by Jack Lousma, U.S. Astronaut. This is actually a fun game to play. Each player is an astronaut. Astronauts choose a spaceship and a crewmember and try to land on Mars first. This game is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Cogno Deep Worlds Game. This game is for 2 to 6 players and takes 30-50 minutes to play. Pick your favourite alien game piece. Be the first to collect three fuel cells by answering science questions about space and the universe. Avoid the Alien Whirlpool, Deep Trench, and survive the DiveZones, using strategy to race others safely back to the beach. Leave the main board and enter the Parallel Universe where anything can happen. You might get lucky and suck another player in. And use your greatest weapon wisely - the Time Machine Token. This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
8) Novelty items and just fun astronomy gifts:
Astrolabe Kit. Use this handy device to determine the declination and azimuth of any star or celestial body. Astrolabes have been used in navigation for more than 2000 years, although their heyday was during the explorations of the 1400-1500s. Instructions are printed right on the plastic body. This is $13.50 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
T-shirts, hats, cups, posters and a clock are all available with wonderful pictures taken by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope of the Cat's Eye Nebula or The Spirograph Nebula, and many other wonderful pictures. These are unbelievably cool and can be found at www.spacemartgifts.com.
“You Are Here” is a 100% cotton heavyweight t-shirt black. On the front, a view of the Milky Way galaxy with a sign that reads "You are Here" pointing in the general direction of Earth. $16.99 www.thinkgeek.com.
Solar System Ruler. This beautifully built 12-inch ruler is transparent plastic and on its front position are mesmerizing illustrations and diameter/temperature measurements of the sun, the 9 planets and asteroids. The ruler is $2.95 at www.physlink.com.
Galilea Moon Phase Clock. This lunar phase clock shows the current Moon phase, the time and date. Galilea's revolutionary design precisely reproduces the daily evolution of the moon phases during it's 29.5 day cycle. This clock is $69.95 at www.physlink.com/estore.
9) A Vacation Plan:
If you live in a city it can be hard to see the stars. Plan a vacation some place that is “dark”. There are also quite a few places that will give unusual sites like the Northern Lights in Alaska. Take the time to look around and see what you can do with your family budget. It does not have to be expensive or a faraway vacation. It does not even have to be longer then one night. A teenager who enjoys astronomy would love to go out into the country and spend the night looking at stars they cannot see at home.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Telescopes, Binoculars, and Accessories:
Telescope, Explorer. This handheld telescope is for beginners. Just pick it up, sight an object, push/pull the focus tube and enjoy bright, clear images of far-off places. Durable plastic telescope magnifies objects 30X. Objective lens is 30mm. This is $12.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Observer 70mm Refractor Telescope. This is a great refractor telescope that is very portable and has an easy-to-use yet sturdy Altazimuth mount. It provides an upright image and can be used for both terrestrial and celestial viewing. This 70mm f/10 telescope has a light grasp of 5.9 square inches, 100 times the light of the unaided human eye and 36% more light than a 60mm reflector telescope. More light means you will see more stars and galaxies and greater detail of the moon and planets. This telescope is $129.00 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Telescope Digital Photo Adapter. This lets you attach a digital camera to most telescopes and spotting scopes and take digital photos. This is $19.95 at www.physlink.com.
Astro Pack. This pack is a great tool for the beginning astronomy hobbyist. It includes a planisphere that shows the positions of the stars and constellations for any hour in the year; a book on how to choose, set up, and use a telescope; a month-by-month guide to the night sky; and a star chart that contains detailed comprehensive maps of the heavens. This is $21.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Backyard Stars Guide. This fold-out guide is used to identify the stars from your own backyard on any reasonably clear night, year-round. The stars identified in this guide are those easily seen without binoculars or a telescope. Includes charts for each season and for the moon. This is $4.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
2) Gift Certificates:
You can always pick up gift cards so that they can pick out what they want. However the best gift card is the Slooh 50 min Telescope Card. This is a pre-paid card gives them 50 minutes spectacular deep space objects streamed real-time live to your computer from powerful telescopes located high on a mountain off the coast of Africa. This is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
3) Books, Maps, software and Calendars:
A subscription to “Astronomy”. “Astronomy” is the top astronomy magazine. Here is the web site www.astronomy.com to get the subscription.
“What's Out Tonight?” This is a 50 Year Astronomy Field Guide 2000 to 2050 (Paperback). “What's Out Tonight?” is a popular celestial almanac and astronomy field guide provides the enthusiast, beginner or the seasoned amateur with a snapshot of the heavens until 2050. There are star charts of the entire sky as well as tables indicating the Planets that are out, the phase of the Moon, meteor showers and more. At a glance you will know what is happening in the night sky for 50 years. This book is $39.95 at www.iglou.com.
Star Pocket. This is an accurate pocket size star finder to identify 70 constellations and 42 main stars. This kit includes 2 star maps, one for each hemisphere, 4 latitude attachments, built-in compass, protective sleeve, and an instruction booklet. It is $29.95 at www.physlink.com.
Starry Night Enthusiast Astronomy Software. This software provides a comprehensive astronomy course. The 3D graphics will take you on a journey from the stars visible in your backyard to distant galaxies deep in space. You can also view live images from special observation equipment via the Internet, keep track of upcoming events, create videos and files to easily view an event again later and read detailed information about each of the 2.5 million celestial objects. This software is $79.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
Hubble Picture CD. This feature packed CD-ROM that works on both PC and Mac computers includes 450+ pictures & captions, educational text of a full paragraph on each image, screen saver with 20 Hubble images to enhance your screen. Image Browser software allows you to easily review the photos, search & read detailed captions or print the catalog for handy reference. Also includes drag and drop features for publishing programs. This CD is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
Deep Space iCD. This CD is filled with hundreds of images and amazing facts; this multi-media program lets you explore space with the very best images from the Hubble Space Telescope. This CD features a complete collection of Hubble images from the Space Telescope Science Institute's, plus 32 superb earth-based astronomical photographs. This is $19.95 at www.physlink.com.
Calendars with night skies or even pictures from space can be found almost any place. Some of them will even have reminders of important viewing events and historical date for astronomy. Calendars can make great gifts.
4) DVD’s:
The Mysteries of the Cosmos DVD Set. Explore some of the greatest mysteries in the Universe. From the Big Bang to the Hubble telescope, this stunning collection brings you up close and personal to the mysteries and wonders of space. Learn about current research being performed by the greatest minds in space exploration. Witness stunning animation, actual satellite photography and archival NASA footage that bring the farthest reaches of the Universe. This DVD set is $29.95 at http://shopping.discovery.com.
The Stars DVD Set. This set has three star DVD’s:
“Death Star”, Learn how these violet explosions could have the power to eradicate life in an entire galaxy.
“Death of a Star”, Experience one of the most violent celestial events since the creation of the universe.
“Runaway Universe”, Join a dramatic quest to unlock the secrets of the universe, including the mysterious "dark energy."
This set is $39.95 at http://shopping.discovery.com.
5) Models and posters:
Motorized Solar System Mobile Kit. This solar system stretches a massive 42 inches in diameter, and is completely remote controlled. The kit mounts to the ceiling of any room and contains an audio tour CD that teaches about the planets. As a bonus, the remote control provided contains a built-in laser pointer for comets and swooshing shooting stars. This kit is $39.95 at www.physlink.com.
Map Of The Sky Poster. Both north and south night skies are included in this poster plus star data. Star data included: magnitude, surface temperature, zodiac constelations, etc. Poster size: 38.5in x 26.75in. This poster is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
The Solar Flare and Earths Magnetosphere Poster is a great new poster that allows you to view these two amazing subjects. It is an awesome poster. The poster is $9.95 at www.physlink.com.
6) Home Planetariums:
Home Planetarium. This Space Theater home planetarium projects star positions as white points of light onto any wall or ceiling. Positions are accurate for each day of the year. The home planetarium includes five changeable constellation masks that show 5-7 constellations for each season plus circum-polar (unsetting northern) stars. This is $27.95 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
7) Games:
The MONOPOLY: Night Sky Edition brings the wonders of the universe right into your living room. Move around the game board as you purchase comets, planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies and build observatories. Comes with six custom pewter tokens (Meade telescope, Hubble space telescope, binoculars, radio dish, observatory, Mars Rover) and custom dice. Mars and Moon cards replace classic Chance and Community Chest cards, respectively. Read all about the different wonders featured on the game board. This game is $34.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
AristoPlay Mars 2020 game - A race to Mars. It's a race to Mars in the year 2020. This game is for 2-6 players and has over 550 space travel and astronomy questions, endorsed by Jack Lousma, U.S. Astronaut. This is actually a fun game to play. Each player is an astronaut. Astronauts choose a spaceship and a crewmember and try to land on Mars first. This game is $31.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
Cogno Deep Worlds Game. This game is for 2 to 6 players and takes 30-50 minutes to play. Pick your favourite alien game piece. Be the first to collect three fuel cells by answering science questions about space and the universe. Avoid the Alien Whirlpool, Deep Trench, and survive the DiveZones, using strategy to race others safely back to the beach. Leave the main board and enter the Parallel Universe where anything can happen. You might get lucky and suck another player in. And use your greatest weapon wisely - the Time Machine Token. This game is $28.95 at www.sciencestoreforthestars.com.
8) Novelty items and just fun astronomy gifts:
Astrolabe Kit. Use this handy device to determine the declination and azimuth of any star or celestial body. Astrolabes have been used in navigation for more than 2000 years, although their heyday was during the explorations of the 1400-1500s. Instructions are printed right on the plastic body. This is $13.50 at www.hometrainingtools.com.
T-shirts, hats, cups, posters and a clock are all available with wonderful pictures taken by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope of the Cat's Eye Nebula or The Spirograph Nebula, and many other wonderful pictures. These are unbelievably cool and can be found at www.spacemartgifts.com.
“You Are Here” is a 100% cotton heavyweight t-shirt black. On the front, a view of the Milky Way galaxy with a sign that reads "You are Here" pointing in the general direction of Earth. $16.99 www.thinkgeek.com.
Solar System Ruler. This beautifully built 12-inch ruler is transparent plastic and on its front position are mesmerizing illustrations and diameter/temperature measurements of the sun, the 9 planets and asteroids. The ruler is $2.95 at www.physlink.com.
Galilea Moon Phase Clock. This lunar phase clock shows the current Moon phase, the time and date. Galilea's revolutionary design precisely reproduces the daily evolution of the moon phases during it's 29.5 day cycle. This clock is $69.95 at www.physlink.com/estore.
9) A Vacation Plan:
If you live in a city it can be hard to see the stars. Plan a vacation some place that is “dark”. There are also quite a few places that will give unusual sites like the Northern Lights in Alaska. Take the time to look around and see what you can do with your family budget. It does not have to be expensive or a faraway vacation. It does not even have to be longer then one night. A teenager who enjoys astronomy would love to go out into the country and spend the night looking at stars they cannot see at home.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Great Christmas stocking stuffer ideas for your teen girl
Stockings are always fun. I always end up with more stocking stuffers then I can actually fit into the stocking. It is so much fun to find all these small little gifts and knickknacks to fill stockings. This also goes to show that great things can come in small packages. It is amazing the things one can find to go into a stocking. Here is a list of great Christmas stocking stuffer ideas for your teen girl.
1) Kinder surprise. You never out grow them. They are fun, especially if every one gets one and then we can compare what we each get. They also fit nicely into the toe of a stocking.
2) New Christmas tree ornament. Every year I buy a new Christmas tree ornament and put it into her stocking, and then we put it on the tree when she opens it in the morning. It is a nice tradition that I hope to carry on when she is older and no longer lives with me.
3) Assorted holiday chocolates, cookies and candy. I still like the little Santa’s and chocolate Christmas balls, they fill in any empty areas.
4) Craft supplies like pens, paints, paintbrushes, and bead kits. Mine is still into stickers; glitter and all that art stuff, only now it is called scrap booking. I can usually find small bags of “scrap booking” supplies at Wal-Mart or the dollar store
5) Mini digital camera keychain. There are quite a few different models to select from. I was able to find some starting at about $15.00 online at Sears or Wal-Mart. Though Canadian tire has a Mode mini digital camera keychain on sale for $9.99, regular price $39.99.
6) IPods and MP3’s. They have come down in price and fit perfect into a stocking. I found some with 1 GB and 2 GB around $25.00 to $35.00 that would work just fine. Tigerdirect.ca has them, so did Sears, Wal-Mart and Canadian Tire. Fill the rest of the stocking with accessories.
7) A small joke gifts. I always find a few every year. She has been asking for a cell phone, so I might put the Disney play cell phone, with carry case in to her stocking. It is pink and has a princess on it.
8) Make up and nail care. A stocking is great for the little gifts that I don’t want to wrap like the small makeup kits, eye shadow, lipstick, a cosmetic brush set, nail polish, and a small nail care set.
9) Hair accessories. I also find some fun hair accessories at the mall, clips and the hair elastics with fun things all over them. I can pick up quite a few at the dollar store. A comb or brush usually makes it into the stocking depending on how much room I have left. I am going to try and fit a Conair wet and dry hair straightener into the stocking this year, if I have room.
10) A travel game that does not require batteries. I found a great travel game Travel Reversi pocket play made by Family Games Inc. that is just perfect for her stocking this year. I like to put a game in that does not require batteries, and challenges her mind.
11) Small clothing or accessory items. Gloves, hat, scarf or a pair of theme socks
12) Jewelry. Costume jewelry is always fun. You can find a nice selection in a mall or on-line.
13) Packages of specialty hot chocolate mixes. It is always fun to have a hot chocolate after we open our stockings.
I do know some parents that have had a lot of fun with their teen’s stockings. One mom I know filled it with rocks. They were semi-precious stones. Her daughter liked to make jewelry and for Christmas they bought her a rock tumbler so she could polish her own stones and then make jewelry with them. This is the same lady that filled the stocking with bags of beads. They were all for her daughter to make jewelry with. I thought it was creative.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
1) Kinder surprise. You never out grow them. They are fun, especially if every one gets one and then we can compare what we each get. They also fit nicely into the toe of a stocking.
2) New Christmas tree ornament. Every year I buy a new Christmas tree ornament and put it into her stocking, and then we put it on the tree when she opens it in the morning. It is a nice tradition that I hope to carry on when she is older and no longer lives with me.
3) Assorted holiday chocolates, cookies and candy. I still like the little Santa’s and chocolate Christmas balls, they fill in any empty areas.
4) Craft supplies like pens, paints, paintbrushes, and bead kits. Mine is still into stickers; glitter and all that art stuff, only now it is called scrap booking. I can usually find small bags of “scrap booking” supplies at Wal-Mart or the dollar store
5) Mini digital camera keychain. There are quite a few different models to select from. I was able to find some starting at about $15.00 online at Sears or Wal-Mart. Though Canadian tire has a Mode mini digital camera keychain on sale for $9.99, regular price $39.99.
6) IPods and MP3’s. They have come down in price and fit perfect into a stocking. I found some with 1 GB and 2 GB around $25.00 to $35.00 that would work just fine. Tigerdirect.ca has them, so did Sears, Wal-Mart and Canadian Tire. Fill the rest of the stocking with accessories.
7) A small joke gifts. I always find a few every year. She has been asking for a cell phone, so I might put the Disney play cell phone, with carry case in to her stocking. It is pink and has a princess on it.
8) Make up and nail care. A stocking is great for the little gifts that I don’t want to wrap like the small makeup kits, eye shadow, lipstick, a cosmetic brush set, nail polish, and a small nail care set.
9) Hair accessories. I also find some fun hair accessories at the mall, clips and the hair elastics with fun things all over them. I can pick up quite a few at the dollar store. A comb or brush usually makes it into the stocking depending on how much room I have left. I am going to try and fit a Conair wet and dry hair straightener into the stocking this year, if I have room.
10) A travel game that does not require batteries. I found a great travel game Travel Reversi pocket play made by Family Games Inc. that is just perfect for her stocking this year. I like to put a game in that does not require batteries, and challenges her mind.
11) Small clothing or accessory items. Gloves, hat, scarf or a pair of theme socks
12) Jewelry. Costume jewelry is always fun. You can find a nice selection in a mall or on-line.
13) Packages of specialty hot chocolate mixes. It is always fun to have a hot chocolate after we open our stockings.
I do know some parents that have had a lot of fun with their teen’s stockings. One mom I know filled it with rocks. They were semi-precious stones. Her daughter liked to make jewelry and for Christmas they bought her a rock tumbler so she could polish her own stones and then make jewelry with them. This is the same lady that filled the stocking with bags of beads. They were all for her daughter to make jewelry with. I thought it was creative.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Christmas gifts that won't embarrass your teen girl
You spend all this time and effort on finding the perfect gift for your teen girl only to have her be embarrassed by the gift. Packaging and presentation is everything with a teen girl. It is to young, the wrong brand or just embarrassing for some unknown reason. This is a frustration every one would like to avoid so I have created a list of the do’s and don’ts of Christmas gift shopping for teen girls so you don’t embarrass them and I have added a few gift ideas to
NO UNDERCLOTHING. It does not matter if she was in the store with you, picked up some cute underwear and said “I love these, can I have them”. Underwear and bras are out as gifts, even if they are Christmas themed. Other then you pulling out that black mail photo of her as a baby in the nothings to show to everyone there is almost nothing else as embarrassing to a teen girl then to open up a box of underwear or a bra in front of family and friends. If you want to give her some nice underwear or even her first training bra, or her first real bra don’t wrap it up as a Christmas gift. Go to one of the nice bra shops in the area, get a gift card and give her that in a card. Make sure that it is a real undergarment shop that will measure her properly for a bra. The sales people should also explain to her what bras are best for her, not just trying to sell the most expensive one. Let her know that she can pick her bra or underwear. This is a cool adult gift, not a kid’s gift and she will know the difference even at thirteen.
You should not give her any shaving products ether. It can just be embarrassing to be reminded that she is changing. She may not want people to know she has started shaving. The Braun “soft perfection” or the Remington “smooth & silky ultra plus” shavers are great adult gifts, not so great teenage girl gifts.
Make sure the gift is age appropriate. So you both know she still collects dolls or still enjoys “kid” games and activities, but that does not mean she wants any one else to know. She is a teenager now and does not want to be seen as a child anymore, even if she is one. These means no “little girl” gifts even if you both know she likes them. If you are buying make up, don’t get it in the toy section any more. Get a make up kit or selection from the make up counter. If she still loves dolls, give her one that is a collectable.
She is going to be sensitive to the age on the packaging, the one that says for 8 and up. It does not matter that you need to be at least 8 to be able to play the game or make the craft. She may love making jewelry but if the packaging on the kit says for 8 and up all she sees is that it is for an 8 year old. Some times the pictures on the box is of young kids playing the game or doing the craft, again this gives the impression that it is for children. Solution, look at the packaging before buying, if it looks like a kids’ gift don’t get it. If it is a craft kit or project kit then find out what is in it and then buy that and put a kit together yourself. This makes it more of an adult gift and a lot of the time you can find a lot better selection then what was in the kit.
At the same time you don’t want to be giving her something that is too old. You don’t want to be giving her Granny jewelry, clothing or the gift baskets made up for older people. It is hard to know what is going to be seen as being to old. Rule of thumb, if you would give it to your Mom, then it probably is not a good teen girl gift.
Name brand important or not important? Clothing, you need to know if she just likes the style or is it the brand she wants. Peer pressure is tough on teen girls. If she has been begging for a pair of pants because every one else is wearing them, you need to know if it’s the brand that is important or the look of the pants. Even the best teenager in the world can sometimes feel embarrassed because they don’t have the name brand that is popular, but a different brand of clothing. Sure it is just as good, and some times just as expensive, but it is not what everyone else has. We all went through this as teens, we just have forgotten how important it is to fit in at that age. This is something that can be resolved by talking with her before buying. Or the universal solution, a gift card so she can pick out what she wants.
Jewelry avoid plastic and costume and give her an adult piece of jewelry like a sterling silver chain with a nice pendant, maybe with her birthstone. A nice necklace with glass beads is also a good choice as long as it does not look like some thing for a little girl. Look for pieces that are advertised on teens or adults. Go with real stones not glass or plastic in rings, necklace pendants and earrings. You can often find some very nice sterling silver pieces that are in the same price range as some of the kids costume jewelry. When looking at a piece of jewelry ask yourself, would an adult wear this. If the answer is no, don’t buy it.
Sometimes even getting her what she wants can embarrass her. That music group she is always listening to may be seen as a kid’s band, not a teen band. So you go out and get her the poster or CD and then she is embarrassed when she opens it up. She may love the gift but is embarrassed because other people now know she listens to them. This one is very difficult to gage as you don’t actually know she does not want other people to know she likes that group, TV show, game or collects Yugioh cards, dolls, or my little ponies still.
On the other hand there are some things out there that I would never think to give to a teenage girl because they are definitely marketed to little girls. I have seen many teen girls with Dora backpacks on the bus. Some how, in this area at least, Dora is in with the teen girls. There are just some items or themes that seem to cross over from childhood to adulthood. It is still cool to like fairies, Winnie the Poo, Tigger, Piglet and other characters even when you are a teen.
When in doubt give her neutral gift and gift cards so she can buy what she loves when no one is around. Here are a couple of neutral gift ideas.
MP3 or MP 4 player or iPod or accessories for them like a docking station, portable speakers, iDog, iPod speaker lamp, iLounger Chair - Pink.
Digital camera and digital picture frame
Cell phone
Laptop computer
Portable DVD player
NintendoDS lite
LeadSinger Wireless Remote Duet Microphone for Karaoke
Hair styling products like a straightener iron or curling iron
A purse or bag that is marketed to adults, even if it is pink or cute it should be in the tenor adult section of a store. It should not be made of plastic.
Toys and games marketed to teens and adults like Scattergories, Pictionary, Taboo, Scene it and all its variations, touché, Hannah Montana DVD Game, CSI Crimescene Investigations, 1 vs. 100 Electronic Tabletop Game, Park & Sun CLUE DVD Game, Anti-Monopoly Board Game, or the deal or no deal electronic game.
Make up and perfume packaged and marketed to teens and adults like the cosmetic pleather train case make up kit for $14.98 at Wal-Mart. The top model blockbuster gift set is out, but the beauty by design blockbuster gift set is great. They are both $19.98 at Wal-Mart, they are both make up but the packaging is way different.
Jewelry such as the secret treasures boxed watch gift sets. They come in a jewelry box, and she gets a watch and matching pendant for $19.92 at Wal-Mart.
Craft and art supplies. If you know what she likes then just buy the “raw” materials she uses. Kits can still be a good gift as long as it is not being marketed to children. You can buy bags of assorted glass bead, wire and tools needed to make jewelry, or all the paper, stickers, pens, and glitter stuff used for scrapbooking and make up your own gift kit. Though the Girl Crush Jewelry Maker seems to be marketed to teen girls.
Gift cards and gift certificates make things easy. You can let her pick out what she wants. You can even give her a specific gift using a gift card. Things like a teen make over day, or spa treatment, or let her take her friends (or boyfriend) out for a nice dinner. Gift cards open up a lot of options and can prevent embarrassment. They are just not as fun as unwrapping an actual “gift” that you can use or play with right then.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
NO UNDERCLOTHING. It does not matter if she was in the store with you, picked up some cute underwear and said “I love these, can I have them”. Underwear and bras are out as gifts, even if they are Christmas themed. Other then you pulling out that black mail photo of her as a baby in the nothings to show to everyone there is almost nothing else as embarrassing to a teen girl then to open up a box of underwear or a bra in front of family and friends. If you want to give her some nice underwear or even her first training bra, or her first real bra don’t wrap it up as a Christmas gift. Go to one of the nice bra shops in the area, get a gift card and give her that in a card. Make sure that it is a real undergarment shop that will measure her properly for a bra. The sales people should also explain to her what bras are best for her, not just trying to sell the most expensive one. Let her know that she can pick her bra or underwear. This is a cool adult gift, not a kid’s gift and she will know the difference even at thirteen.
You should not give her any shaving products ether. It can just be embarrassing to be reminded that she is changing. She may not want people to know she has started shaving. The Braun “soft perfection” or the Remington “smooth & silky ultra plus” shavers are great adult gifts, not so great teenage girl gifts.
Make sure the gift is age appropriate. So you both know she still collects dolls or still enjoys “kid” games and activities, but that does not mean she wants any one else to know. She is a teenager now and does not want to be seen as a child anymore, even if she is one. These means no “little girl” gifts even if you both know she likes them. If you are buying make up, don’t get it in the toy section any more. Get a make up kit or selection from the make up counter. If she still loves dolls, give her one that is a collectable.
She is going to be sensitive to the age on the packaging, the one that says for 8 and up. It does not matter that you need to be at least 8 to be able to play the game or make the craft. She may love making jewelry but if the packaging on the kit says for 8 and up all she sees is that it is for an 8 year old. Some times the pictures on the box is of young kids playing the game or doing the craft, again this gives the impression that it is for children. Solution, look at the packaging before buying, if it looks like a kids’ gift don’t get it. If it is a craft kit or project kit then find out what is in it and then buy that and put a kit together yourself. This makes it more of an adult gift and a lot of the time you can find a lot better selection then what was in the kit.
At the same time you don’t want to be giving her something that is too old. You don’t want to be giving her Granny jewelry, clothing or the gift baskets made up for older people. It is hard to know what is going to be seen as being to old. Rule of thumb, if you would give it to your Mom, then it probably is not a good teen girl gift.
Name brand important or not important? Clothing, you need to know if she just likes the style or is it the brand she wants. Peer pressure is tough on teen girls. If she has been begging for a pair of pants because every one else is wearing them, you need to know if it’s the brand that is important or the look of the pants. Even the best teenager in the world can sometimes feel embarrassed because they don’t have the name brand that is popular, but a different brand of clothing. Sure it is just as good, and some times just as expensive, but it is not what everyone else has. We all went through this as teens, we just have forgotten how important it is to fit in at that age. This is something that can be resolved by talking with her before buying. Or the universal solution, a gift card so she can pick out what she wants.
Jewelry avoid plastic and costume and give her an adult piece of jewelry like a sterling silver chain with a nice pendant, maybe with her birthstone. A nice necklace with glass beads is also a good choice as long as it does not look like some thing for a little girl. Look for pieces that are advertised on teens or adults. Go with real stones not glass or plastic in rings, necklace pendants and earrings. You can often find some very nice sterling silver pieces that are in the same price range as some of the kids costume jewelry. When looking at a piece of jewelry ask yourself, would an adult wear this. If the answer is no, don’t buy it.
Sometimes even getting her what she wants can embarrass her. That music group she is always listening to may be seen as a kid’s band, not a teen band. So you go out and get her the poster or CD and then she is embarrassed when she opens it up. She may love the gift but is embarrassed because other people now know she listens to them. This one is very difficult to gage as you don’t actually know she does not want other people to know she likes that group, TV show, game or collects Yugioh cards, dolls, or my little ponies still.
On the other hand there are some things out there that I would never think to give to a teenage girl because they are definitely marketed to little girls. I have seen many teen girls with Dora backpacks on the bus. Some how, in this area at least, Dora is in with the teen girls. There are just some items or themes that seem to cross over from childhood to adulthood. It is still cool to like fairies, Winnie the Poo, Tigger, Piglet and other characters even when you are a teen.
When in doubt give her neutral gift and gift cards so she can buy what she loves when no one is around. Here are a couple of neutral gift ideas.
MP3 or MP 4 player or iPod or accessories for them like a docking station, portable speakers, iDog, iPod speaker lamp, iLounger Chair - Pink.
Digital camera and digital picture frame
Cell phone
Laptop computer
Portable DVD player
NintendoDS lite
LeadSinger Wireless Remote Duet Microphone for Karaoke
Hair styling products like a straightener iron or curling iron
A purse or bag that is marketed to adults, even if it is pink or cute it should be in the tenor adult section of a store. It should not be made of plastic.
Toys and games marketed to teens and adults like Scattergories, Pictionary, Taboo, Scene it and all its variations, touché, Hannah Montana DVD Game, CSI Crimescene Investigations, 1 vs. 100 Electronic Tabletop Game, Park & Sun CLUE DVD Game, Anti-Monopoly Board Game, or the deal or no deal electronic game.
Make up and perfume packaged and marketed to teens and adults like the cosmetic pleather train case make up kit for $14.98 at Wal-Mart. The top model blockbuster gift set is out, but the beauty by design blockbuster gift set is great. They are both $19.98 at Wal-Mart, they are both make up but the packaging is way different.
Jewelry such as the secret treasures boxed watch gift sets. They come in a jewelry box, and she gets a watch and matching pendant for $19.92 at Wal-Mart.
Craft and art supplies. If you know what she likes then just buy the “raw” materials she uses. Kits can still be a good gift as long as it is not being marketed to children. You can buy bags of assorted glass bead, wire and tools needed to make jewelry, or all the paper, stickers, pens, and glitter stuff used for scrapbooking and make up your own gift kit. Though the Girl Crush Jewelry Maker seems to be marketed to teen girls.
Gift cards and gift certificates make things easy. You can let her pick out what she wants. You can even give her a specific gift using a gift card. Things like a teen make over day, or spa treatment, or let her take her friends (or boyfriend) out for a nice dinner. Gift cards open up a lot of options and can prevent embarrassment. They are just not as fun as unwrapping an actual “gift” that you can use or play with right then.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Christmas 2007 Music gift ideas for your teen girl
If your teen girl loves music then Christmas shopping just got very easy for you. There are so many gifts for the teen girl who loves to listen to or create music, both in actual gifts of music or gifts that revolve around music. Even the style or type of music she is into is not going to limit your gift options. I have created a list of music gift ideas for your teen girl just to help you choose between the 1000’s of gift ideas available.
For the teen girl who enjoys making music:
1) Instruments and instructions on how to play. There are specialty stores that deal with musical instruments and every thing she will need to learn how to play, or just upgrade what she already has. Though some large chain stores do have musical instruments available in the toy section or will have a music instrument section.
http://www.sears.com/ has First Act - Electric Guitar for $199.99, Rockmaster Guitar with Amplifier for $159.99, Portable Electric Guitar with Amplifier or Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar with Case each for $99.99.
http://www.stevesmusic.com/ is a good site to price check and buy musical instruments.
http://www.dragonsongdrums.com/ is a great place to find unusual musical instruments. They sell handcrafted original design doumbek drums, rattles and talking sticks.
http://www.musicroom.com/ is a good place to find sheet music, books about music, tuition books, music software, and instruments & accessories
2) Music games are a great option. Here are a few that are out right now.
Dream Life Superstar game where she can become a movie star, sports idol, singer, or writer.
High School Musical - Sing It! - Microphone Bundle
High School Musical DVD Board Game
Hannah Montana DVD Game
Singstar Amped for playstation 2
Rock Band for the Xbox 360
Guitar Hero III
3) Karaoke System. There are portable machine available as well as a few Karaoke games. Portable Memorex Karaoke System displays song lyrics on the TV and has full range speakers and is $49.97 at Toys R Us.
4) There are software packages that will let her make her own music on the computer and even burn it to CD’s or save as digital files.
Music Maker 12 deluxe http://www.magix.com/ $49.99
Hip Hop Record Producer Software http://www.hiphopstarz.com/ $35.95
M-Audio Session Software http://www.amazon.com/ $49.99
5) Theme jewelry. You can find theme jewelry such as musical instruments she plays or general music theme jewelry like a charm bracelet with different music notes. These can be found in any jewelry store, jewelry department, some music stores, and some novelty stores. They can also be found on-line. http://www.jeffrey-david.com/ has some great music themed jewelry.
For the teen girl who loves to listen to music:
1) Top pick this year is something for her to listen to music on such as an iPod, MP3 or MP4 player. It has become easer to find iPods, MP3 and MP4 players that can meet any teen girls needs both in style and performance as the price has gone down but the quality has gone up. At http://www.tigerdirect.com/ the Mach Speed 2GB MP3 Player w/ Voice Recorder and Xtatix Pocket Candy 2GB MP3 Player w/ FM Tuner/ Voice are both $39.99. You can find them in any large stores like Wal-Mart, or music and electronic stores. You will want to compare the GB and price. Hart had a 1 GB MP3 with a 1.5” video screen on sale for $29.86. It is not a brand name and only has 1 GB but it is still a MP3 player.
CD players are still popular, though not as much as iPods and MP3 and MP4 players. However you can find CD MP3 combos that will still let her play her CD’s or listen to music saved on to the MP3. Coby MPCD521 Personal MP3/CD Player w/ Anti-Skip Protection is $18.88 on http://www.walmart.com/. It can play up to 14 hours of MP3-formatted music, and also features programmable track memory and digital anti-skip memory. Philips EXP2550/17 Personal CD Player w/ MP3,WMA Playback will let her play MP3 and wma files along with CD/CD-R and is $28.88 at www.wamart.com.
Clock, Radio and CD player is a nice combo gift but if she already has an iPod or MP3 or MP4 player you might as well just get a docking station, or other accessories.
2) Accessories for her iPod, MP3 or MP4 player is the second most popular musical gift pick. There are most unlimited gift options here. Wal-Mart alone has 202 iPod accessories. I am going to list some accessories just to give a few ideas. You can find lots of different accessories under any brand name and price.
iDog, iCat, iFish, and icy are perfect gifts for a teen girl with an iPod or MP3 player. These are great. There is a huge selection to pick from and they even have their own accessories.
Caring Case with speakers. iHome Sport Case with Speaker System for iPod, IH13 Pink. $49.86 at http://www.walmart.com/. It is a water-resistant zippered case securely holds her iPod, shuffle or any other MP3 player. It has two built-in stereo speakers and attaches quickly to bikes, strollers, exercise equipment and other gear. She can operate the iPod controls even when the case is closed.
Arm Band: iPod Nano Armband is $28.76 at http://www.walmart.com/. She inserts her Pod nano into the pocket, wraps the band around her arm or wrist, and secures it with the adjustable fasteners. DLO Action Jacket for iPod Nano 2nd Generation, Pink seems to be more popular with teen girls and is $28.83 at http://www.walmart.com/.
Battery Powered Portable Speakers. IMainGo Portable iPod Speaker System and Case is $39.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Cover, case, or sleeve for the iPod, PM3 or MP4 player. iPod Nano Shell - Pink is $14.99 at http://www.target.com/.
A docking system or station. iLive Speaker Docking System for iPod is $29.98 at http://www.walmart.com/. It will play and charge her iPod. iLive iPod Boom Box, Pink is 39.98 at http://www.wallmart.com/ .
3) Gift certificates for the local or on-line music store for CD’s, DVD’s or a web site she can buy and down load songs. http://www.imusicshare.com/ and http://www.apple.com/itunes/store she can download right away. If she has told you what band or group she likes then you can try to find their CD in a music store, or find that band or groups web site and see what you can buy directly from them. Some times you can buy signed copies of the CD that way.
4) If you know the bands or groups she loves and you can find their tour information, then two or more concert tickets for her and her friends is a great gift.
5) Wearable memorabilia can also be a great gift. Clothing that has a band, group or singers image, or label on it are easy to find, even in a mall. It is easer on line though as most bands, groups or singers have their own websites, and are usually selling product with their image on it. If you cannot find it, you can always have it made. Here are a couple of site that can be helpful http://www.band-tees.com/, www.mymunchmusic.com/store.htm, http://www.wolfgangsvault.com/, http://www.tshirtsville.com/
6) Signed memorabilia is a great gift. There are lots of stores and web sites that sell signed memorabilia, and some times things that belonged to the group, band or singer. Some group’s websites have stores that you can buy their memorabilia at. You just have to keep an eye out for what is out there. Here are a couple of places to look http://www.visionaryrock.com/, http://www.ebay.com/, http://www.millionairememorabilia.com/, http://www.starstore.com/.
7) Other memorabilia. There are a lot of things to pick from, like posters, wall hangings, even framed art, curtains, bed covers, carpets, figures, lamps, clocks and some times even singing dolls. If you can think of it some one has made it, and is probably selling it on line some where, or is willing to make it for you. Here are a couple of online stores that might have what you are looking for http://www.visionaryrock.com/, http://www.starstore.com/, http://www.ebay.com/.
8) Music ring tones for her phone. You can buy a gift certificate that she can use to buy and download different songs to use on her cell phone. http://www.muchmusic.com/ has a very good selection of music ringtones.
9) Christmas theme singing or dancing figure is musical and fun. There is always some thing new at Wal-Mart, Zellers, Target, and Hallmark. If there is a novelty shop in your area they usually have some.
10) Written copy of the Lyrics and the music of her favourite song. You can buy some of them on line. Others you can find for free. Print them off onto nice paper and then frame it. This also works well in a collage with pictures of her and the group or singer or their CD cover artwork. This is also a great thing to have put onto a shirt or even a pillowcase. These days you can customize just about anything. http://www.musicroom.com/ and http://www.jwpepper.com/ are good places to start looking for the lyrics, though there are quite a few other sites that will list lyrics for free. http://www.customink.com/ can print the list onto things for you. Though I have found that most local photo shops or t-shirt stores and even Wal-Mart offer this service.
For the teen girl who enjoys making music:
1) Instruments and instructions on how to play. There are specialty stores that deal with musical instruments and every thing she will need to learn how to play, or just upgrade what she already has. Though some large chain stores do have musical instruments available in the toy section or will have a music instrument section.
http://www.sears.com/ has First Act - Electric Guitar for $199.99, Rockmaster Guitar with Amplifier for $159.99, Portable Electric Guitar with Amplifier or Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar with Case each for $99.99.
http://www.stevesmusic.com/ is a good site to price check and buy musical instruments.
http://www.dragonsongdrums.com/ is a great place to find unusual musical instruments. They sell handcrafted original design doumbek drums, rattles and talking sticks.
http://www.musicroom.com/ is a good place to find sheet music, books about music, tuition books, music software, and instruments & accessories
2) Music games are a great option. Here are a few that are out right now.
Dream Life Superstar game where she can become a movie star, sports idol, singer, or writer.
High School Musical - Sing It! - Microphone Bundle
High School Musical DVD Board Game
Hannah Montana DVD Game
Singstar Amped for playstation 2
Rock Band for the Xbox 360
Guitar Hero III
3) Karaoke System. There are portable machine available as well as a few Karaoke games. Portable Memorex Karaoke System displays song lyrics on the TV and has full range speakers and is $49.97 at Toys R Us.
4) There are software packages that will let her make her own music on the computer and even burn it to CD’s or save as digital files.
Music Maker 12 deluxe http://www.magix.com/ $49.99
Hip Hop Record Producer Software http://www.hiphopstarz.com/ $35.95
M-Audio Session Software http://www.amazon.com/ $49.99
5) Theme jewelry. You can find theme jewelry such as musical instruments she plays or general music theme jewelry like a charm bracelet with different music notes. These can be found in any jewelry store, jewelry department, some music stores, and some novelty stores. They can also be found on-line. http://www.jeffrey-david.com/ has some great music themed jewelry.
For the teen girl who loves to listen to music:
1) Top pick this year is something for her to listen to music on such as an iPod, MP3 or MP4 player. It has become easer to find iPods, MP3 and MP4 players that can meet any teen girls needs both in style and performance as the price has gone down but the quality has gone up. At http://www.tigerdirect.com/ the Mach Speed 2GB MP3 Player w/ Voice Recorder and Xtatix Pocket Candy 2GB MP3 Player w/ FM Tuner/ Voice are both $39.99. You can find them in any large stores like Wal-Mart, or music and electronic stores. You will want to compare the GB and price. Hart had a 1 GB MP3 with a 1.5” video screen on sale for $29.86. It is not a brand name and only has 1 GB but it is still a MP3 player.
CD players are still popular, though not as much as iPods and MP3 and MP4 players. However you can find CD MP3 combos that will still let her play her CD’s or listen to music saved on to the MP3. Coby MPCD521 Personal MP3/CD Player w/ Anti-Skip Protection is $18.88 on http://www.walmart.com/. It can play up to 14 hours of MP3-formatted music, and also features programmable track memory and digital anti-skip memory. Philips EXP2550/17 Personal CD Player w/ MP3,WMA Playback will let her play MP3 and wma files along with CD/CD-R and is $28.88 at www.wamart.com.
Clock, Radio and CD player is a nice combo gift but if she already has an iPod or MP3 or MP4 player you might as well just get a docking station, or other accessories.
2) Accessories for her iPod, MP3 or MP4 player is the second most popular musical gift pick. There are most unlimited gift options here. Wal-Mart alone has 202 iPod accessories. I am going to list some accessories just to give a few ideas. You can find lots of different accessories under any brand name and price.
iDog, iCat, iFish, and icy are perfect gifts for a teen girl with an iPod or MP3 player. These are great. There is a huge selection to pick from and they even have their own accessories.
Caring Case with speakers. iHome Sport Case with Speaker System for iPod, IH13 Pink. $49.86 at http://www.walmart.com/. It is a water-resistant zippered case securely holds her iPod, shuffle or any other MP3 player. It has two built-in stereo speakers and attaches quickly to bikes, strollers, exercise equipment and other gear. She can operate the iPod controls even when the case is closed.
Arm Band: iPod Nano Armband is $28.76 at http://www.walmart.com/. She inserts her Pod nano into the pocket, wraps the band around her arm or wrist, and secures it with the adjustable fasteners. DLO Action Jacket for iPod Nano 2nd Generation, Pink seems to be more popular with teen girls and is $28.83 at http://www.walmart.com/.
Battery Powered Portable Speakers. IMainGo Portable iPod Speaker System and Case is $39.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Cover, case, or sleeve for the iPod, PM3 or MP4 player. iPod Nano Shell - Pink is $14.99 at http://www.target.com/.
A docking system or station. iLive Speaker Docking System for iPod is $29.98 at http://www.walmart.com/. It will play and charge her iPod. iLive iPod Boom Box, Pink is 39.98 at http://www.wallmart.com/ .
3) Gift certificates for the local or on-line music store for CD’s, DVD’s or a web site she can buy and down load songs. http://www.imusicshare.com/ and http://www.apple.com/itunes/store she can download right away. If she has told you what band or group she likes then you can try to find their CD in a music store, or find that band or groups web site and see what you can buy directly from them. Some times you can buy signed copies of the CD that way.
4) If you know the bands or groups she loves and you can find their tour information, then two or more concert tickets for her and her friends is a great gift.
5) Wearable memorabilia can also be a great gift. Clothing that has a band, group or singers image, or label on it are easy to find, even in a mall. It is easer on line though as most bands, groups or singers have their own websites, and are usually selling product with their image on it. If you cannot find it, you can always have it made. Here are a couple of site that can be helpful http://www.band-tees.com/, www.mymunchmusic.com/store.htm, http://www.wolfgangsvault.com/, http://www.tshirtsville.com/
6) Signed memorabilia is a great gift. There are lots of stores and web sites that sell signed memorabilia, and some times things that belonged to the group, band or singer. Some group’s websites have stores that you can buy their memorabilia at. You just have to keep an eye out for what is out there. Here are a couple of places to look http://www.visionaryrock.com/, http://www.ebay.com/, http://www.millionairememorabilia.com/, http://www.starstore.com/.
7) Other memorabilia. There are a lot of things to pick from, like posters, wall hangings, even framed art, curtains, bed covers, carpets, figures, lamps, clocks and some times even singing dolls. If you can think of it some one has made it, and is probably selling it on line some where, or is willing to make it for you. Here are a couple of online stores that might have what you are looking for http://www.visionaryrock.com/, http://www.starstore.com/, http://www.ebay.com/.
8) Music ring tones for her phone. You can buy a gift certificate that she can use to buy and download different songs to use on her cell phone. http://www.muchmusic.com/ has a very good selection of music ringtones.
9) Christmas theme singing or dancing figure is musical and fun. There is always some thing new at Wal-Mart, Zellers, Target, and Hallmark. If there is a novelty shop in your area they usually have some.
10) Written copy of the Lyrics and the music of her favourite song. You can buy some of them on line. Others you can find for free. Print them off onto nice paper and then frame it. This also works well in a collage with pictures of her and the group or singer or their CD cover artwork. This is also a great thing to have put onto a shirt or even a pillowcase. These days you can customize just about anything. http://www.musicroom.com/ and http://www.jwpepper.com/ are good places to start looking for the lyrics, though there are quite a few other sites that will list lyrics for free. http://www.customink.com/ can print the list onto things for you. Though I have found that most local photo shops or t-shirt stores and even Wal-Mart offer this service.
Christmas 2007 Hottest beauty and skin care gift ideas for teen girls
These days there is a lot more to beauty and skin care then knowing what color to use or how to take makeup off. It is now about the whole package. It is about knowing how to apply and use makeup and skin care products. It is also about having healthy skin through eating right, exercising and drinking plenty of water. I have created a list of Christmas 2007 hottest beauty and skin care gift ideas for teen girls.
1) Education about makeup and makeup use. It is important for her to know what colors look good on her, what makeup works best with her skin, how to properly apply and remove makeup, and how to keep her skin healthy.
Teen makeover day. The best gift is to find a real make-up artist to teach her how to properly take care of her skin and apply makeup. Knowing how to take care of her skin and how show of her best features and hid others with the use of make-up will be something that is useful no matter what style, fad or fashion she is in today or in the future. It is important to find someone who is actually teaching skin care and make-up application, not some one marketing a product. What is important is not a type of make-up or product but the knowledge of what different products do, how to use them, and do you even need to use them. A good teacher will cover skin care, how to prevent acne and how to deal with it when it shows up and how to apply make-up to look her best no matter what style or fad she is in. This is useful for girls into who have never put on makeup, ones who are minimalists right up to Goths as the knowledge and principles are all the same no matter the look, style or fad she is currently into. This is such a great gift because it takes away any fear of make up, reduces the number of make up disasters, and helps with self-esteem.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. This is all about learning what is in skin care products and what they actually do. A teenager will learn about basic dermatology and the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Then they get to make some skin care products as experiments. They also learn how skin care products are applied as well as the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. This kit is $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/ and $54.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Scientific Explorer French Spa Body Lotion – Teens learn about what is in French body lotions, and use chemistry to create their own designs. This kit is $17.95 at http://www.sciencestoreforthestars.com/.
2) Skin care products. This can be skin creams, cleansers, home facial kits, mini facials, or the tools and equipment used for skin care found in any makeup department or store done up in a basket or put into her stocking.
Panasonic Misting Pore Cleaner. The pore cleaner offers deep cleaning suction power for cleaner, healthier pores. This one I found for $49.99 at http://www.sears.com/.
Conair Illumina Collection Two-Sided Lighted Makeup Mirror with 4 Light Settings
Two-sided lighted makeup mirror with four settings simulates day, evening, office, and home. Full size mirrors with florescent light system. One-year limited Warranty.
$24.29 http://www.sears.com/.
Conair Complete Facial Care System. This system features a 6-step facial care process that cleans & steams, exfoliates & massages, and moisturizes & refreshes. This system is $26.74 at http://www.walmart.com/.
Revlon MoistureStay Ionic Hot or Cold Facial Sauna. She can give herself a facial right at home. This is $29.74 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Makeup Kits. There are always wonderful makeup kits available in any department store or makeup specialty shop. If the teen girl does not know her colors or is learning than a large multi color kit with lots of makeup is the best option to let her experiment. Once she knows her colors then find kits or sets around those colors. Please include makeup-removing products with any gift of makeup, such as makeup removing creams and face washes. It is just as important to properly remove the makeup, as it is to learn how to put it on.
Sears has great kits on sale right now for $19.99. Colorworks 65 Piece Traditional Traincase, Colorworks 47 Piece Music Box Traincase and Colorworks Beauty Briefcase are all on sale. They are great kits with lots of color selections as well as a variety of makeup from lipstick, blush, eye shadow and more. These are great for when you do not know what make-up a teen girl likes, or she is just starting to use it.
Colorworks 94 Piece Color Perfect Blockbuster, a make-up collection that features a combination of 94 eyeshadows, blushes, lipsticks, lip glosses, and nail polishes. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Colorworks 59 Piece Nail Blockbuster, this 59-piece nail set features a variety of colors. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Colorworks Essential Makeup Tools One handbag including 12 Eyeshadows, 2 Blushes, 1 Lip Gloss, 1 Mascara, 2 Nail Polishes, 1 Shimmer Powder, 1 Lip Pencil, 1 Eye Pencil and 4 Makeup. This is on sale for $10.00 at http://www.sears.com/.
4) Fashion games are a great way for a teen to experiment with styles, looks and fashion trends.
Digi Glam Makeover and Digi Makeover Interactive Makeup Kit, let’s girls create their own makeovers and includes. They also include interactive touch pad and digital camera that plug directly into the TV. Digi Makeover Interactive Makeup Kit is $49.94 at http://www.walmart.com/.
5) Books. There are new books out every year with fashion, beauty and skin care tips.
“Face Forward”. This book is for those who see the fun of makeup and are eager to experiment with the virtually unlimited possibilities of it. “Face Forward” is celebrity makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin's third book. This book is $19.79 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“Makeup Makeovers: Expert Secrets for Stunning Transformations book” Author: Jones, Robert. Unlike most makeup books that focus on celebrities or the already glamorous, “Makeup Makeovers” shows every woman how to be her most beautiful. No matter what your age, skin tone, or profile, Robert can show you simple techniques that camouflage flaws and highlight each woman's unique beauty. This book is $14.18 at http://www.walmart.com/.
“Skin And Nails: Care Tips For Girls”
Author: Julie Montalbano This book gives girls head-to-toe tips on preventing pimples, protecting their skin from the sun, and keeping their nails strong and smooth. Plus, girls will learn how to give themselves the spa treatment - right at home. This book is $9.45 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“You Glow, Girl! : The Ultimate Health & Skin Care Guide for Teens” Author: York-Goldman. This fun and fact-filled book is written in hip, teen-friendly language but carries a message of vital importance: skin care and protection during adolescence and teen years play a major role in promoting lifelong skin health and beauty. Predictably, the book covers a host of less-than-glamorous skin problems common among teens, from acne and dandruff to excessive sweating and athlete’s foot. Equal space is also given to making the most of what you’ve got: choosing skin, hair and cosmetics. This book is $22.33 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“Beauty Basics for Teens: The Complete Skin-care, Hair-care, and Nail-care Guide for Young Women”
This book has a top dermatologist and a professional model to guide her through beauty dilemmas that only teen girls face. Filled with expert advice, easy-to-follow instructions, and really helpful hints, Beauty Basics for Teens covers:
The daily routines that will keep you blemish-free.
How to shop for cosmetics and skin-care products, and how to use them like a pro.
Advice on nail and hair care, including tips to banish bad-hair days forever.
How to identify your true skin, hair, and nail types, so you finally use the right products.
The roles that diet, exercise, and rest play in how you look.
This book is $15.16 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
1) Education about makeup and makeup use. It is important for her to know what colors look good on her, what makeup works best with her skin, how to properly apply and remove makeup, and how to keep her skin healthy.
Teen makeover day. The best gift is to find a real make-up artist to teach her how to properly take care of her skin and apply makeup. Knowing how to take care of her skin and how show of her best features and hid others with the use of make-up will be something that is useful no matter what style, fad or fashion she is in today or in the future. It is important to find someone who is actually teaching skin care and make-up application, not some one marketing a product. What is important is not a type of make-up or product but the knowledge of what different products do, how to use them, and do you even need to use them. A good teacher will cover skin care, how to prevent acne and how to deal with it when it shows up and how to apply make-up to look her best no matter what style or fad she is in. This is useful for girls into who have never put on makeup, ones who are minimalists right up to Goths as the knowledge and principles are all the same no matter the look, style or fad she is currently into. This is such a great gift because it takes away any fear of make up, reduces the number of make up disasters, and helps with self-esteem.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. This is all about learning what is in skin care products and what they actually do. A teenager will learn about basic dermatology and the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Then they get to make some skin care products as experiments. They also learn how skin care products are applied as well as the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. This kit is $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/ and $54.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Scientific Explorer French Spa Body Lotion – Teens learn about what is in French body lotions, and use chemistry to create their own designs. This kit is $17.95 at http://www.sciencestoreforthestars.com/.
2) Skin care products. This can be skin creams, cleansers, home facial kits, mini facials, or the tools and equipment used for skin care found in any makeup department or store done up in a basket or put into her stocking.
Panasonic Misting Pore Cleaner. The pore cleaner offers deep cleaning suction power for cleaner, healthier pores. This one I found for $49.99 at http://www.sears.com/.
Conair Illumina Collection Two-Sided Lighted Makeup Mirror with 4 Light Settings
Two-sided lighted makeup mirror with four settings simulates day, evening, office, and home. Full size mirrors with florescent light system. One-year limited Warranty.
$24.29 http://www.sears.com/.
Conair Complete Facial Care System. This system features a 6-step facial care process that cleans & steams, exfoliates & massages, and moisturizes & refreshes. This system is $26.74 at http://www.walmart.com/.
Revlon MoistureStay Ionic Hot or Cold Facial Sauna. She can give herself a facial right at home. This is $29.74 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Makeup Kits. There are always wonderful makeup kits available in any department store or makeup specialty shop. If the teen girl does not know her colors or is learning than a large multi color kit with lots of makeup is the best option to let her experiment. Once she knows her colors then find kits or sets around those colors. Please include makeup-removing products with any gift of makeup, such as makeup removing creams and face washes. It is just as important to properly remove the makeup, as it is to learn how to put it on.
Sears has great kits on sale right now for $19.99. Colorworks 65 Piece Traditional Traincase, Colorworks 47 Piece Music Box Traincase and Colorworks Beauty Briefcase are all on sale. They are great kits with lots of color selections as well as a variety of makeup from lipstick, blush, eye shadow and more. These are great for when you do not know what make-up a teen girl likes, or she is just starting to use it.
Colorworks 94 Piece Color Perfect Blockbuster, a make-up collection that features a combination of 94 eyeshadows, blushes, lipsticks, lip glosses, and nail polishes. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Colorworks 59 Piece Nail Blockbuster, this 59-piece nail set features a variety of colors. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Colorworks Essential Makeup Tools One handbag including 12 Eyeshadows, 2 Blushes, 1 Lip Gloss, 1 Mascara, 2 Nail Polishes, 1 Shimmer Powder, 1 Lip Pencil, 1 Eye Pencil and 4 Makeup. This is on sale for $10.00 at http://www.sears.com/.
4) Fashion games are a great way for a teen to experiment with styles, looks and fashion trends.
Digi Glam Makeover and Digi Makeover Interactive Makeup Kit, let’s girls create their own makeovers and includes. They also include interactive touch pad and digital camera that plug directly into the TV. Digi Makeover Interactive Makeup Kit is $49.94 at http://www.walmart.com/.
5) Books. There are new books out every year with fashion, beauty and skin care tips.
“Face Forward”. This book is for those who see the fun of makeup and are eager to experiment with the virtually unlimited possibilities of it. “Face Forward” is celebrity makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin's third book. This book is $19.79 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“Makeup Makeovers: Expert Secrets for Stunning Transformations book” Author: Jones, Robert. Unlike most makeup books that focus on celebrities or the already glamorous, “Makeup Makeovers” shows every woman how to be her most beautiful. No matter what your age, skin tone, or profile, Robert can show you simple techniques that camouflage flaws and highlight each woman's unique beauty. This book is $14.18 at http://www.walmart.com/.
“Skin And Nails: Care Tips For Girls”
Author: Julie Montalbano This book gives girls head-to-toe tips on preventing pimples, protecting their skin from the sun, and keeping their nails strong and smooth. Plus, girls will learn how to give themselves the spa treatment - right at home. This book is $9.45 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“You Glow, Girl! : The Ultimate Health & Skin Care Guide for Teens” Author: York-Goldman. This fun and fact-filled book is written in hip, teen-friendly language but carries a message of vital importance: skin care and protection during adolescence and teen years play a major role in promoting lifelong skin health and beauty. Predictably, the book covers a host of less-than-glamorous skin problems common among teens, from acne and dandruff to excessive sweating and athlete’s foot. Equal space is also given to making the most of what you’ve got: choosing skin, hair and cosmetics. This book is $22.33 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
“Beauty Basics for Teens: The Complete Skin-care, Hair-care, and Nail-care Guide for Young Women”
This book has a top dermatologist and a professional model to guide her through beauty dilemmas that only teen girls face. Filled with expert advice, easy-to-follow instructions, and really helpful hints, Beauty Basics for Teens covers:
The daily routines that will keep you blemish-free.
How to shop for cosmetics and skin-care products, and how to use them like a pro.
Advice on nail and hair care, including tips to banish bad-hair days forever.
How to identify your true skin, hair, and nail types, so you finally use the right products.
The roles that diet, exercise, and rest play in how you look.
This book is $15.16 at http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Christmas 2007 Gift ideas under $100 for teen girls
It is always nice to have the right gift for someone. When you are going to be spending a lot on money on one gift it is even more important to make sure it is something that they will love. It can be hard to know what to get some one who has moved from being a little girl but is not quite an adult yet. To make things easer I have made a list of Christmas 2007 gift ideas under $100.00 for teen girls.
Digital cameras are one of the biggest gifts this year. The price has dropped, the quality has increased and there are many more styles available this year.
1) Sakar 6.1MP Digital Camera. Has edit On Demand technology crop, add frames, message captions, voice recordings and dates to your photos without a computer.
It also has a 1.5" color TFT screen, 4x digital zoom, and auto flash. It supports SD removable storage and is web cam enabled. It does require 2 AA batteries. Current price $79.88 at http://www.sears.com/.
2) VistaQuest 5 MP VQ-5115 Digital Camera. It has 3.2 megapixel resolution, 8x digital, 1.5-inch color LCD, and 32 MB internal memory and Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current Price $58.84 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Polaroid 5 MP a550 Digital Camera, Black. It has 5.0 megapixel, 2.0" TFT LCD screen, 4x digital zoom, 16MB built-in storage, SD compatible for expanded memory. This camera can take AVI video clips as well as pictures. It also has Off/auto/red-eye reduction/fill flash, auto white balance settings, and a 10-second self-timer. More importantly it is PC & Mac compatible. It comes with a protective skin, wrist strap, USB cable, and the ArcSoft software on a CD-ROM as well as the required 3 AAA batteries. Current price $69.87 http://www.walmart.com/.
Perfume Science Kit. This is a great gift that lets a teen design and develop their own personal perfume. Current price $ 59.95 at www.physlink.com/estore and $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/. You may want to shop around for this one or similar kits. There are other kits available to make soaps, body creams and other personal products all designed to let a teen girl create something just for her.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. Start by building a foundation in basic dermatology, and then learn about the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Next, mix your own personalized beauty formulas from the cosmetic bases in the kit and natural ingredients from your local market. Finally, learn how to apply your creations to your body, face, lips, nails and eyes. You will also learn the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. Current price $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/ and $54.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Ipods and MP3 players are also very popular with teen girls.
1) Apple 1GB iPod Shuffle. This comes in blue, green, silver, red and purple. It has 1GB memory that holds approximately 240 songs. It also comes with earphones, dock and quick start guide. Current price $79.99 at Sears.
2) Transcend T.Sonic 820 2GB MP3 Player, with Color Screen, White. With 1.5-inch SuperColor OLED screen. The T.sonic 820 is an advanced MP3 player designed to play music, photos and video. In addition, the T.sonic 820 player has a FM Radio and Advanced Digital Recording features including, recording using its Built-in Microphone, an External Microphone, or Line-In device. It can also be used to read E-books and store your computer files. Current price $69.99 at http://www.tigerdirect.com/
Panasonic 7” portable DVD player with USB. It includes rechargeable battery, remote control and car adapter. This is great because it is portable, she can take it anyplace and it has a rechargeable battery so she does not need to be by an outlet. Current price $89.97 at Toys R Us
Polaroid Pixie SD Digital Video Camera – Pink. Digital Video Recorder For AVI; Works with Secure Digital Memory Card, MMC for Expanded Memory. It has 2x Digital Zoom, 16MB Built-In Storage, has 640 X 480 resolution, a 1.5" LCD Monitor. The LCD Features Color TFT LCD Display. Additional Functions Include Digital Video Player and Video Capture. It comes with an AV Cable, Batteries, Software, USB Interface Cable, and Wrist Strap. Current price $79.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Jewelry is also very popular. There is a huge selection of individual jewelry pieces or sets available under $100.
1) 10K White Gold .20ct.t.w. Curved Diamond Pendant Necklace. Current price $84.99 sale price, regular $99.99 at http://www.target.com/
2) Three Stone Ruby and Diamond Heart Pendant current price $69.73 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Italian Sterling Silver Chain Necklace. The necklace is 18 inches or 46 cm and weighs 35 grams. Current price $ 98.69 on sale, regular price $123.00 at http://www.medievalmagic.ca/. They also have a great selection of Italian sterling silver chains and sterling silver pendants. You can mix and match to get the right gift combination and still be under $100.
4) Some times it is a good idea to look at one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry. You can find some unique and stunning pieces under $100. On-line stores are a great way to find one-of-a kind designed jewelry that you would not find in a large chain. Here are some very different sites you may wish to look at: http://www.medievalmagic.ca/, http://www.pureartisan.com/, http://www.tailoredtreasure.com/, http://www.leahjewelry.com/, http://www.dndesignsonline.com/, http://www.kellymeekerdesigns.com/, http://www.clunygreyjewelry.com/, http://www.designjewel.com/, http://www.thesejewelsrock.com/. There are millions of other sites that are just as interesting. Just take the time to look around the Internet to see what you can find.
Name brand clothing, shoes and accessories are all great gifts and can often be found under $100.00. This is perfect if the teen girl has been asking for some thing specific and you know exactly what to buy. The only problems with buying clothing is that it usually does not get the “Oh my God this is the best gift ever” reaction and because fashion and fads change so fast, that piece of clothing she had to have when you bought it, a few weeks before, ends up in the closet because it is not in fashion any more. It is better to give her a gift certificate, or better yet a pre paid credit card she can use to buy what she wants now.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Digital cameras are one of the biggest gifts this year. The price has dropped, the quality has increased and there are many more styles available this year.
1) Sakar 6.1MP Digital Camera. Has edit On Demand technology crop, add frames, message captions, voice recordings and dates to your photos without a computer.
It also has a 1.5" color TFT screen, 4x digital zoom, and auto flash. It supports SD removable storage and is web cam enabled. It does require 2 AA batteries. Current price $79.88 at http://www.sears.com/.
2) VistaQuest 5 MP VQ-5115 Digital Camera. It has 3.2 megapixel resolution, 8x digital, 1.5-inch color LCD, and 32 MB internal memory and Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current Price $58.84 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Polaroid 5 MP a550 Digital Camera, Black. It has 5.0 megapixel, 2.0" TFT LCD screen, 4x digital zoom, 16MB built-in storage, SD compatible for expanded memory. This camera can take AVI video clips as well as pictures. It also has Off/auto/red-eye reduction/fill flash, auto white balance settings, and a 10-second self-timer. More importantly it is PC & Mac compatible. It comes with a protective skin, wrist strap, USB cable, and the ArcSoft software on a CD-ROM as well as the required 3 AAA batteries. Current price $69.87 http://www.walmart.com/.
Perfume Science Kit. This is a great gift that lets a teen design and develop their own personal perfume. Current price $ 59.95 at www.physlink.com/estore and $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/. You may want to shop around for this one or similar kits. There are other kits available to make soaps, body creams and other personal products all designed to let a teen girl create something just for her.
Creative Cosmetics - The Science of Skin Care. Start by building a foundation in basic dermatology, and then learn about the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Next, mix your own personalized beauty formulas from the cosmetic bases in the kit and natural ingredients from your local market. Finally, learn how to apply your creations to your body, face, lips, nails and eyes. You will also learn the hygiene and safety necessary for proper skin care. The kit includes seventeen different cosmetics base substances to make personalized makeup, lip gloss, body lotion, face cream and shower gel. Current price $54.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com/ and $54.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Ipods and MP3 players are also very popular with teen girls.
1) Apple 1GB iPod Shuffle. This comes in blue, green, silver, red and purple. It has 1GB memory that holds approximately 240 songs. It also comes with earphones, dock and quick start guide. Current price $79.99 at Sears.
2) Transcend T.Sonic 820 2GB MP3 Player, with Color Screen, White. With 1.5-inch SuperColor OLED screen. The T.sonic 820 is an advanced MP3 player designed to play music, photos and video. In addition, the T.sonic 820 player has a FM Radio and Advanced Digital Recording features including, recording using its Built-in Microphone, an External Microphone, or Line-In device. It can also be used to read E-books and store your computer files. Current price $69.99 at http://www.tigerdirect.com/
Panasonic 7” portable DVD player with USB. It includes rechargeable battery, remote control and car adapter. This is great because it is portable, she can take it anyplace and it has a rechargeable battery so she does not need to be by an outlet. Current price $89.97 at Toys R Us
Polaroid Pixie SD Digital Video Camera – Pink. Digital Video Recorder For AVI; Works with Secure Digital Memory Card, MMC for Expanded Memory. It has 2x Digital Zoom, 16MB Built-In Storage, has 640 X 480 resolution, a 1.5" LCD Monitor. The LCD Features Color TFT LCD Display. Additional Functions Include Digital Video Player and Video Capture. It comes with an AV Cable, Batteries, Software, USB Interface Cable, and Wrist Strap. Current price $79.99 at http://www.target.com/.
Jewelry is also very popular. There is a huge selection of individual jewelry pieces or sets available under $100.
1) 10K White Gold .20ct.t.w. Curved Diamond Pendant Necklace. Current price $84.99 sale price, regular $99.99 at http://www.target.com/
2) Three Stone Ruby and Diamond Heart Pendant current price $69.73 at http://www.walmart.com/.
3) Italian Sterling Silver Chain Necklace. The necklace is 18 inches or 46 cm and weighs 35 grams. Current price $ 98.69 on sale, regular price $123.00 at http://www.medievalmagic.ca/. They also have a great selection of Italian sterling silver chains and sterling silver pendants. You can mix and match to get the right gift combination and still be under $100.
4) Some times it is a good idea to look at one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry. You can find some unique and stunning pieces under $100. On-line stores are a great way to find one-of-a kind designed jewelry that you would not find in a large chain. Here are some very different sites you may wish to look at: http://www.medievalmagic.ca/, http://www.pureartisan.com/, http://www.tailoredtreasure.com/, http://www.leahjewelry.com/, http://www.dndesignsonline.com/, http://www.kellymeekerdesigns.com/, http://www.clunygreyjewelry.com/, http://www.designjewel.com/, http://www.thesejewelsrock.com/. There are millions of other sites that are just as interesting. Just take the time to look around the Internet to see what you can find.
Name brand clothing, shoes and accessories are all great gifts and can often be found under $100.00. This is perfect if the teen girl has been asking for some thing specific and you know exactly what to buy. The only problems with buying clothing is that it usually does not get the “Oh my God this is the best gift ever” reaction and because fashion and fads change so fast, that piece of clothing she had to have when you bought it, a few weeks before, ends up in the closet because it is not in fashion any more. It is better to give her a gift certificate, or better yet a pre paid credit card she can use to buy what she wants now.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Christmas 2007 Gift ideas under $50 for teen girls
It can be hard to know what to get some one who is no longer a little girl but not quite an adult yet. It is always best to ask or get the teen girl to make a wish list, but that is not always possible. To make things easer I have made a list of Christmas 2007 gift ideas under $50.00 for teen girls.
Digital Cameras are very popular gifts this year here are two that I recommend.
1) Digital Camera with 8MG Memory, 300K pixel resolution, and a 5mm lens and an LCD screen. It can hold 26 pictures. It has auto exposure with a 10-second self-timer. It has USB output, and a stand is included. It does require 2 AAA batteries. Current website price: $39.99 at sears.
2) VistaQuest 3 MP Digital Keychain Camera, Black. It has 3 megapixel, black and white LCD screen and 16 MB memory with SD memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $34.84 at Wal-Mart.
MP3 Player or Ipod are also high on teen girl gift lists.
1) Mach Speed 2GB MP3 Player w/ Voice Recorder. Has 2 GB storage for music, data, and to record voice notes. Current price $34.99 on http://www.tigerdirect.com/.
2) Xtatix Pocket Candy 2GB MP3 Player w/ FM Tuner/ Voice Recorder- Silver. It comes with a key ring, a built-in digital FM radio, direct live radio recording, voice recorder, backlit LCD screen, USB drive so it will store any file type, USB 2.0, Plug N’ Play with Windows XP, Mac, and Linux. Current price $39.99 on http://www.tigerdirect.com/.
Clear healthy skin is usually a priority for teen girls. Panasonic Misting Pore Cleaner would help with that. The pore cleaner offers deep cleaning suction power for cleaner, healthier pores. Micro-fine mist helps ensure that the suction cup stays tightly on your skin. It can be used wet or dry and rinses clean under water. It has an ultra-slim design, with reversible suction cup for hard-to-reach areas. Current price $49.99 at Sears.
Revlon Spa Impressions Travel Manicure and Pedicure Kit. It has a bi-directional hand-held styler with flexible coiled power cord. There are 9 styling attachments: Shape, buff, Clean, Natural, or Acrylic Nails. A press pad activates the nail dryer. Includes replacement filing pads and cuticle stick. Current price $34.99 at Sears.
Make-up kits are usually a safe and popular gift and there are some great ones available under $50.00.
1) Colorworks 94 Piece Color Perfect Blockbuster, a make-up collection that features a combination of 94 eyeshadows, blushes, lipsticks, lipglosses, and nail polishes. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
2) Colorworks 59 Piece Nail Blockbuster, this 59 piece nail set features a variety of colors. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Jewelry is always popular and there are a lot of quality pieces to be found under $50.00.
1) Blue and White Sapphire Heart Stud Earrings. Hearts of lab created blue sapphire (5x5) combine with glints of lab created white sapphire and 10k yellow gold to create this fashionably fond pair. Post back. Current price $29.98 at Sears
2) 10 kt and 14 kt gold birthstone jewelry. Current price $39.97 on sale Regular price $49.97 at Zellers.
3) Sterling silver jewelry; broaches, rings, necklaces, chains, earrings, and pendants as well as one-of-a-kind necklaces under $50.00 at www.medievalmagic.ca
Tao 1.4 inch Digital Picture Key Chain. Digital picture frames are popular, and the key chain ones even more so as they are so portable. This one will hold up to 56 digital pictures. Current price $44.99 at Sears.
Portable Memorex Karaoke System. It displays song lyrics on the TV and has full range speakers. Current price $49.97 at Toys R Us.
Cell phone package and minutes. There are quite a few cell phones available under $50.00. If she already has a cell phone then $50.00 worth on minutes would be a great gift. Virgin has a prepaid cell phone plan that you pay for the minutes and do not have to have a contract with them. They even have a plan for texting, pictures, IM, and e-mails $9.99 a month for 1000 or $19.99 a month for unlimited. Phones start as low as $19.99 and then you add what plan you would like. A cell phone is a great gift that lets you hand over the responsibility of paying the phone bill to your teen girl with out getting burned by a contract. She does not pre-pay the phone gets shut off. This is one of the more popular gifts.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Digital Cameras are very popular gifts this year here are two that I recommend.
1) Digital Camera with 8MG Memory, 300K pixel resolution, and a 5mm lens and an LCD screen. It can hold 26 pictures. It has auto exposure with a 10-second self-timer. It has USB output, and a stand is included. It does require 2 AAA batteries. Current website price: $39.99 at sears.
2) VistaQuest 3 MP Digital Keychain Camera, Black. It has 3 megapixel, black and white LCD screen and 16 MB memory with SD memory card slot. This camera will take pictures and movie clips. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $34.84 at Wal-Mart.
MP3 Player or Ipod are also high on teen girl gift lists.
1) Mach Speed 2GB MP3 Player w/ Voice Recorder. Has 2 GB storage for music, data, and to record voice notes. Current price $34.99 on http://www.tigerdirect.com/.
2) Xtatix Pocket Candy 2GB MP3 Player w/ FM Tuner/ Voice Recorder- Silver. It comes with a key ring, a built-in digital FM radio, direct live radio recording, voice recorder, backlit LCD screen, USB drive so it will store any file type, USB 2.0, Plug N’ Play with Windows XP, Mac, and Linux. Current price $39.99 on http://www.tigerdirect.com/.
Clear healthy skin is usually a priority for teen girls. Panasonic Misting Pore Cleaner would help with that. The pore cleaner offers deep cleaning suction power for cleaner, healthier pores. Micro-fine mist helps ensure that the suction cup stays tightly on your skin. It can be used wet or dry and rinses clean under water. It has an ultra-slim design, with reversible suction cup for hard-to-reach areas. Current price $49.99 at Sears.
Revlon Spa Impressions Travel Manicure and Pedicure Kit. It has a bi-directional hand-held styler with flexible coiled power cord. There are 9 styling attachments: Shape, buff, Clean, Natural, or Acrylic Nails. A press pad activates the nail dryer. Includes replacement filing pads and cuticle stick. Current price $34.99 at Sears.
Make-up kits are usually a safe and popular gift and there are some great ones available under $50.00.
1) Colorworks 94 Piece Color Perfect Blockbuster, a make-up collection that features a combination of 94 eyeshadows, blushes, lipsticks, lipglosses, and nail polishes. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
2) Colorworks 59 Piece Nail Blockbuster, this 59 piece nail set features a variety of colors. Current price $25.20 on sale, regular price is $ 36.00 at Sears.
Jewelry is always popular and there are a lot of quality pieces to be found under $50.00.
1) Blue and White Sapphire Heart Stud Earrings. Hearts of lab created blue sapphire (5x5) combine with glints of lab created white sapphire and 10k yellow gold to create this fashionably fond pair. Post back. Current price $29.98 at Sears
2) 10 kt and 14 kt gold birthstone jewelry. Current price $39.97 on sale Regular price $49.97 at Zellers.
3) Sterling silver jewelry; broaches, rings, necklaces, chains, earrings, and pendants as well as one-of-a-kind necklaces under $50.00 at www.medievalmagic.ca
Tao 1.4 inch Digital Picture Key Chain. Digital picture frames are popular, and the key chain ones even more so as they are so portable. This one will hold up to 56 digital pictures. Current price $44.99 at Sears.
Portable Memorex Karaoke System. It displays song lyrics on the TV and has full range speakers. Current price $49.97 at Toys R Us.
Cell phone package and minutes. There are quite a few cell phones available under $50.00. If she already has a cell phone then $50.00 worth on minutes would be a great gift. Virgin has a prepaid cell phone plan that you pay for the minutes and do not have to have a contract with them. They even have a plan for texting, pictures, IM, and e-mails $9.99 a month for 1000 or $19.99 a month for unlimited. Phones start as low as $19.99 and then you add what plan you would like. A cell phone is a great gift that lets you hand over the responsibility of paying the phone bill to your teen girl with out getting burned by a contract. She does not pre-pay the phone gets shut off. This is one of the more popular gifts.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
Christmas 2007 Gift ideas under $25 for teen girls
There are a lot of gifts you can find for a teen girl under $25.00. There is jewelry, clothing, bags, make-up and accessories, games, cameras and more available in the $25.00 range. It can be hard to know what to get some one who is no longer a little girl but not quite an adult yet. To make things easer I have made a list of Christmas 2007 gift ideas under $25.00 for teen girls.
A big hit this year are digital cameras and with the lower prices you can actually find several digital cameras under $25.00.
Sears website has two available online though you may have to go into a store to find them as they are selling out online:
1) Innovage Mini Digital Camera with key chain. It takes pictures and can also be used as a Web cam and video camera. It has 243 digital picture capacity and 16 MB internal memory. Current website price $14.99
2) Mini Digital Camera on a key chain. It has 16 MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes. Is available in blue, green or clear and comes with a USB cable and carrying pouch. It does require 1 AAA battery. Current web site price $19.99
Wal-Mart has also has two available, but you will need to go into stores to find them:
1) Digital Concepts 3-in-1 Camera Startup Kit: It comes with Photo Tags CD software a carrying case the user manual and USB connector cable as well as Digital Photography tips for Dummies handbook. Camera has resolution of 0.3 Megapixel, and has a frame movie mode. It has 64 MB (SDRAM) storage. You can have the flash on or off and there is a Self-timer delay of 10 seconds. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current price $18.84
2) VistaQuest 1.3MP Digital Keychain Camera comes in pink and blue. This camera takes both still photos and video. The ability to add a SD memory card lets you take more images or longer video clips. The auto power off feature saves battery power. It has 1.3 megapixel, a black and white LCD, built-in 8MB SD RAM with SD card slot. Software is included ArcSoft PhotoImpression & VideoImpression. You will need to use USB to connect to PC. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $19.96
Ipod and MP3 players are also in high demand.
Centon 2GB MP3 Player w/Voice Recorder with FM Tuner, MP3 and WMA Compatibility, Digital Voice Recording, LCD Display with backlight and ID3 tag support and is USB 2.0 compatible. Current price $24.99 at www.tigerdirect.com
Make up is always a good gift for teen girls. There are sets and kits available in every large chain and small shops specializing in make up. Sears has great kits on sale right now.
1) Colorworks 65 Piece Traditional Traincase. It is 65 piece makeup set. The set features eyeshadow, blush, lipgloss, and nail polish in a variety of stunning shades. Current price $19.99 on sale, usually it is $40.00. This would be my top make-up pick because it comes with every thing and a huge selection of colors to play with.
2) Colorworks 47 Piece Music Box Traincase on sale for 19.99. This makeup set has only 47 pieces of makeup but is a music box, nice variation.
3) Colorworks Beauty Briefcase Silver on sale for 19.99. The beauty kit is packaged in a nice carrying briefcase for on the go traveling. It has all the brushes and lots of make up to play with.
Jewelry is always popular and in the under $25.00 range you can find a great selection of costume and sterling silver jewelry. Jewelry under $25.00 can find in any large chain and in many of the smaller specialty shops that deal with jewelry and hair accessories. There are some very nice online shops that carry sterling silver jewelry under $25.00.
1) http://www.medievalmagic.ca/ has sterling silver rings, chains, pendants and earrings under $25.00
2) http://www.finegiftsandjewelry.com/ has bracelets, earrings, pendants and chains both in costume and sterling silver under $25.00
DVD’s and CD’s under $25.00 can be found in almost any large chain as well as music and movie specialty shops like Sunrise, HMV and Music world. These are great gifts if you know the teen girls taste. If you do not, then you may wish to go with a gift certificate or make sure you hang onto the receipt. I am unable to recommend any movie or music simply because this is such a personal choice what one-person loves another will hate.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
A big hit this year are digital cameras and with the lower prices you can actually find several digital cameras under $25.00.
Sears website has two available online though you may have to go into a store to find them as they are selling out online:
1) Innovage Mini Digital Camera with key chain. It takes pictures and can also be used as a Web cam and video camera. It has 243 digital picture capacity and 16 MB internal memory. Current website price $14.99
2) Mini Digital Camera on a key chain. It has 16 MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes. Is available in blue, green or clear and comes with a USB cable and carrying pouch. It does require 1 AAA battery. Current web site price $19.99
Wal-Mart has also has two available, but you will need to go into stores to find them:
1) Digital Concepts 3-in-1 Camera Startup Kit: It comes with Photo Tags CD software a carrying case the user manual and USB connector cable as well as Digital Photography tips for Dummies handbook. Camera has resolution of 0.3 Megapixel, and has a frame movie mode. It has 64 MB (SDRAM) storage. You can have the flash on or off and there is a Self-timer delay of 10 seconds. Requires 2 AAA batteries. Current price $18.84
2) VistaQuest 1.3MP Digital Keychain Camera comes in pink and blue. This camera takes both still photos and video. The ability to add a SD memory card lets you take more images or longer video clips. The auto power off feature saves battery power. It has 1.3 megapixel, a black and white LCD, built-in 8MB SD RAM with SD card slot. Software is included ArcSoft PhotoImpression & VideoImpression. You will need to use USB to connect to PC. Requires 1 AAA battery. Current price $19.96
Ipod and MP3 players are also in high demand.
Centon 2GB MP3 Player w/Voice Recorder with FM Tuner, MP3 and WMA Compatibility, Digital Voice Recording, LCD Display with backlight and ID3 tag support and is USB 2.0 compatible. Current price $24.99 at www.tigerdirect.com
Make up is always a good gift for teen girls. There are sets and kits available in every large chain and small shops specializing in make up. Sears has great kits on sale right now.
1) Colorworks 65 Piece Traditional Traincase. It is 65 piece makeup set. The set features eyeshadow, blush, lipgloss, and nail polish in a variety of stunning shades. Current price $19.99 on sale, usually it is $40.00. This would be my top make-up pick because it comes with every thing and a huge selection of colors to play with.
2) Colorworks 47 Piece Music Box Traincase on sale for 19.99. This makeup set has only 47 pieces of makeup but is a music box, nice variation.
3) Colorworks Beauty Briefcase Silver on sale for 19.99. The beauty kit is packaged in a nice carrying briefcase for on the go traveling. It has all the brushes and lots of make up to play with.
Jewelry is always popular and in the under $25.00 range you can find a great selection of costume and sterling silver jewelry. Jewelry under $25.00 can find in any large chain and in many of the smaller specialty shops that deal with jewelry and hair accessories. There are some very nice online shops that carry sterling silver jewelry under $25.00.
1) http://www.medievalmagic.ca/ has sterling silver rings, chains, pendants and earrings under $25.00
2) http://www.finegiftsandjewelry.com/ has bracelets, earrings, pendants and chains both in costume and sterling silver under $25.00
DVD’s and CD’s under $25.00 can be found in almost any large chain as well as music and movie specialty shops like Sunrise, HMV and Music world. These are great gifts if you know the teen girls taste. If you do not, then you may wish to go with a gift certificate or make sure you hang onto the receipt. I am unable to recommend any movie or music simply because this is such a personal choice what one-person loves another will hate.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
http://www.medievalmagic.ca/
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