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
Monday, December 17, 2007
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
2007 Christmas List of Secret Santa Gifts for the person you do not know at all
It is almost time for Secret Santa pick, so here is the 2007 what to buy Secret Santa list.
Every year at work, and with family and friends I end up doing the Secret Santa gift exchange. It makes it easer and less expensive to buy for one person, and it is fun guessing who has your name. I always end up with the name of some one I don’t know that well. Or if we do it by hints, not name, I always get the ones that make no sense. So I struggle every year to find a decent gift in the price range that I hope the person likes. I figure I had better put some work into it as I am hoping the person who got my name or hint is as well. If the hint is good always go with that, but when you have no idea you need to be careful and go with a nice neutral or general gift. So for every one out there who is like me and could use some help, here is a list I have come up with.
The good thing is that most Secret Santa gifts have a price range so I have organized my list that way. However there are just some things you never go with unless you know the person well enough that you know they would like it.
Coffee/tea mug
Coffee/tea gift sets
Cologne or perfume
Alcohol or any thing related to alcohol
Clothing
Joke or gage gifts
Personal care products sets, like hair or nail care sets.
$10-$20 range:
1) Kinetic Motion toy - classic perpetual motion desk toys such as the galaxy – perpetual motion toy
2) Newton's Cradle, also known as balance balls - The same number of balls will swing up on the opposite side and the clicking will go back and forth until it stops
3) Mini Digital Camera with 16MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes, USB cable, and carry pouch. It requires 1 AAA battery
4) Mini Pool Game or Mini Zen garden.
5) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
6) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
7) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
8) Seasonal “theme” gifts like a Laughing Santa or singing snowman.
9) Candles are always the quick and easy gift. Just keep in mind that every one gives candles and not every likes candles.
$21-$40 range:
1) Keychain Digital Photo Frame. It is compact 1.1” size and has 512 kb flash memory that holds about 40 pictures.
2) Kinetic Motion toy – Such as: Pit & Pendulum, give the swinging arm a light push and watch the pendulum make designs in the sand. Or Stellanova - a magnetic levitating globe with computer controlled levitation.
3) Executive Sandbox - Construction Zone, Day at the Beach, Great Outdoors are all a fun twist on the traditional Zen Garden.
4) Desktop water fountains - larger selection to pick from in this rang.
5) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
6) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
7) Seasonal “theme” gifts like Christmas Tapestry throws.
$41-60 range:
1) MP3 Player
2) Curtis Home theatre system
3) Kinetic Motion toy - Solar Motion Ferris Wheel
4) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
5) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
6) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
7) Seasonal “theme” gifts like a Laughing Santa or singing snowman.
$61-$100 range:
1) Levitron AG Anti-Gravity Globe – This electromagnetic toy uses minimal power to create real levitation. Suspended in mid-air, the Earth globe defies gravity.
2) Portable DVD Player
3) Digital home weather station
4) 2 GB video MP3 player
5) Kinetic Motion toy - Dancing Helix
6) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
7) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
8) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Every year at work, and with family and friends I end up doing the Secret Santa gift exchange. It makes it easer and less expensive to buy for one person, and it is fun guessing who has your name. I always end up with the name of some one I don’t know that well. Or if we do it by hints, not name, I always get the ones that make no sense. So I struggle every year to find a decent gift in the price range that I hope the person likes. I figure I had better put some work into it as I am hoping the person who got my name or hint is as well. If the hint is good always go with that, but when you have no idea you need to be careful and go with a nice neutral or general gift. So for every one out there who is like me and could use some help, here is a list I have come up with.
The good thing is that most Secret Santa gifts have a price range so I have organized my list that way. However there are just some things you never go with unless you know the person well enough that you know they would like it.
Coffee/tea mug
Coffee/tea gift sets
Cologne or perfume
Alcohol or any thing related to alcohol
Clothing
Joke or gage gifts
Personal care products sets, like hair or nail care sets.
$10-$20 range:
1) Kinetic Motion toy - classic perpetual motion desk toys such as the galaxy – perpetual motion toy
2) Newton's Cradle, also known as balance balls - The same number of balls will swing up on the opposite side and the clicking will go back and forth until it stops
3) Mini Digital Camera with 16MB SDRM memory, image quality shift and auto shoot modes, USB cable, and carry pouch. It requires 1 AAA battery
4) Mini Pool Game or Mini Zen garden.
5) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
6) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
7) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
8) Seasonal “theme” gifts like a Laughing Santa or singing snowman.
9) Candles are always the quick and easy gift. Just keep in mind that every one gives candles and not every likes candles.
$21-$40 range:
1) Keychain Digital Photo Frame. It is compact 1.1” size and has 512 kb flash memory that holds about 40 pictures.
2) Kinetic Motion toy – Such as: Pit & Pendulum, give the swinging arm a light push and watch the pendulum make designs in the sand. Or Stellanova - a magnetic levitating globe with computer controlled levitation.
3) Executive Sandbox - Construction Zone, Day at the Beach, Great Outdoors are all a fun twist on the traditional Zen Garden.
4) Desktop water fountains - larger selection to pick from in this rang.
5) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
6) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
7) Seasonal “theme” gifts like Christmas Tapestry throws.
$41-60 range:
1) MP3 Player
2) Curtis Home theatre system
3) Kinetic Motion toy - Solar Motion Ferris Wheel
4) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
5) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
6) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
7) Seasonal “theme” gifts like a Laughing Santa or singing snowman.
$61-$100 range:
1) Levitron AG Anti-Gravity Globe – This electromagnetic toy uses minimal power to create real levitation. Suspended in mid-air, the Earth globe defies gravity.
2) Portable DVD Player
3) Digital home weather station
4) 2 GB video MP3 player
5) Kinetic Motion toy - Dancing Helix
6) Desktop water fountains – large selection to pick from in this range.
7) Gourmet food basket – no nut or alcohol products
8) Gift certificates to for a mall. Ones that can be used in all the stores in the mall, not a specific store.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
How to get your teen girl into the spirit of the holiday season
It is hard to have your teen girl being bah humbug about Christmas. She doesn’t want to participate in any part of the celebrations. You try to find out why she is just not into Christmas this year. It may be a conflict between the religious and the commercial Holliday that Christmas has become. It may be that she is a teenager the “magic” of Christmas is gone. There is no Santa to bring her gifts; she is to old to participate in most of the kids activities and parties. She is struggling to find her place as she moves from childhood to adulthood. She may not even know why she is just not in the holiday spirit. So how do you get your teen girl into the spirit of the holiday season?
1) Make sure you are in the Christmas Spirit. Don’t let your frustration of her lack of holiday spirit take away yours. It is easer to bring the holiday spirit back for her if you are not both bah humbug about it. Don’t try so much to change her mood as to invite her to join you in your holiday spirit.
2) Bring a Christmas atmosphere into your home with decorations, music and what is on the TV. The malls do it all the time, mainly to get people in the holiday spirit so they will shop. The idea works for them so it should work for you.
Start playing Christmas music. Watch Christmas movies and specials on the DVD. Start cooking, baking or bringing home Christmas treats and have them out on the counter, living room or table for every one to snack on. It works best if it is some thing she associates with Christmas.
Decorate your home, even if she is not interested in helping. You can ask her how she likes the decorations, and see if she thinks anything should be changed. You are not trying to force her to help you or get into the Christmas spirit, but are asking her opinion. That is a powerful thing and can get her involved with the Christmas decorations. Though some times you will get, “Its fine, leave me alone!” Give her an area of the house to decorate all by herself. She gets to decide how it is going to look and where everything goes. It is all hers. It can be her room, but it works best if it is part of the home that every ones sees.
3) Do some Christmas Theme activities, together if possible. Have her make a wish list. She can do this by window shopping on the Internet or actually going to the mall with you. Have an advent calendar, even if she thinks it’s for little kids. Let her pick out the Christmas wrapping paper and help wrap gifts.
Participate in a Christmas event. It could be a party at your place or find a Christmas event like Santa Clause parade, the lighting of the towns Christmas tree, go to a Christmas pageant or show, even one put on by the local school. Go for a Christmas light walk around your neighbourhood and see the wonderful Christmas light displays.
Have a special Christmas tree ornament or Christmas decoration hunt. It could be going together shopping to find something to add to your home, or finding the raw materials, or a craft kit to make it. Make a gingerbread house or train with all your family. Bake cookies together or make rice crispy treats.
4) Make someone happy for Christmas. Spend a day shopping for the toy box donations. Each of you take an amount of money, lets say $20.00 each and see who can find the best Christmas gift or gifts to donate. This is fun and is in the Christmas spirit of giving to others. If there are any parties being held for children, like one being held by the local church, see if she is interested to helping out. Making other people happy goes a long way to get back that Christmas spirit.
5) Have her help with planning Christmas dinner, and possibly help make it. If you are going somewhere else for Christmas dinner then have her help decide what you are going to take with you. It does not matter what she does or makes, just as long as she feels important, that she was included in the decisions and her contributions are valued.
6) Let her have her own little Christmas party, just 3 or 4 friends over. She can decorate, do the invitations and help deciding and preparing the food even if it is just snack food. She can organize the games and activities for the party. See if her friends are interested in doing a secrete Santa gift exchange. Those are always fun and will keep the cost down for those who just cannot afford to buy gifts for all their friends.
Doing fun things with friends and family should bring her Christmas spirit back. If not, then gift wrap her to a chair, with wrapping paper and bows and top it off with a Santa hat. Then make her to watch all the old Christmas movies, like it’s a white Christmas and Scrooge. Force-feed her eggnog and sugar cookies until she cannot eat any more. Then if that does not work, get your family and friends to surround her and sing Christmas carols off key until she begs for mercy and promises to be more in the holiday spirit.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Make sure you are in the Christmas Spirit. Don’t let your frustration of her lack of holiday spirit take away yours. It is easer to bring the holiday spirit back for her if you are not both bah humbug about it. Don’t try so much to change her mood as to invite her to join you in your holiday spirit.
2) Bring a Christmas atmosphere into your home with decorations, music and what is on the TV. The malls do it all the time, mainly to get people in the holiday spirit so they will shop. The idea works for them so it should work for you.
Start playing Christmas music. Watch Christmas movies and specials on the DVD. Start cooking, baking or bringing home Christmas treats and have them out on the counter, living room or table for every one to snack on. It works best if it is some thing she associates with Christmas.
Decorate your home, even if she is not interested in helping. You can ask her how she likes the decorations, and see if she thinks anything should be changed. You are not trying to force her to help you or get into the Christmas spirit, but are asking her opinion. That is a powerful thing and can get her involved with the Christmas decorations. Though some times you will get, “Its fine, leave me alone!” Give her an area of the house to decorate all by herself. She gets to decide how it is going to look and where everything goes. It is all hers. It can be her room, but it works best if it is part of the home that every ones sees.
3) Do some Christmas Theme activities, together if possible. Have her make a wish list. She can do this by window shopping on the Internet or actually going to the mall with you. Have an advent calendar, even if she thinks it’s for little kids. Let her pick out the Christmas wrapping paper and help wrap gifts.
Participate in a Christmas event. It could be a party at your place or find a Christmas event like Santa Clause parade, the lighting of the towns Christmas tree, go to a Christmas pageant or show, even one put on by the local school. Go for a Christmas light walk around your neighbourhood and see the wonderful Christmas light displays.
Have a special Christmas tree ornament or Christmas decoration hunt. It could be going together shopping to find something to add to your home, or finding the raw materials, or a craft kit to make it. Make a gingerbread house or train with all your family. Bake cookies together or make rice crispy treats.
4) Make someone happy for Christmas. Spend a day shopping for the toy box donations. Each of you take an amount of money, lets say $20.00 each and see who can find the best Christmas gift or gifts to donate. This is fun and is in the Christmas spirit of giving to others. If there are any parties being held for children, like one being held by the local church, see if she is interested to helping out. Making other people happy goes a long way to get back that Christmas spirit.
5) Have her help with planning Christmas dinner, and possibly help make it. If you are going somewhere else for Christmas dinner then have her help decide what you are going to take with you. It does not matter what she does or makes, just as long as she feels important, that she was included in the decisions and her contributions are valued.
6) Let her have her own little Christmas party, just 3 or 4 friends over. She can decorate, do the invitations and help deciding and preparing the food even if it is just snack food. She can organize the games and activities for the party. See if her friends are interested in doing a secrete Santa gift exchange. Those are always fun and will keep the cost down for those who just cannot afford to buy gifts for all their friends.
Doing fun things with friends and family should bring her Christmas spirit back. If not, then gift wrap her to a chair, with wrapping paper and bows and top it off with a Santa hat. Then make her to watch all the old Christmas movies, like it’s a white Christmas and Scrooge. Force-feed her eggnog and sugar cookies until she cannot eat any more. Then if that does not work, get your family and friends to surround her and sing Christmas carols off key until she begs for mercy and promises to be more in the holiday spirit.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Romantic birthday gift ideas for her
Where one women would find a room full of flowers, a dinner for two in an expensive restaurant and then a night out dancing, and then ending in a 5 star hotel romantic another would not. She may like a quite night at home with Chinese or pizza take out, a stack of B horror movies, or action flicks, with time just for the two of you to curl up on the couch. Another woman might find getting each other’s name tattooed on your ring fingers to be the be all and end all of romance.
The point is that you need to find out what is important, valuable to your girlfriend or wife. Whatever you do give has to be about her and for her. It needs to show that you know her, hear her and care enough to put the effort into the right thing for her. Not some one else’s idea of romance. Presentation is also very important. You can have a gift you know she will like but make the atmosphere romantic to make the gift romantic.
I one year I received the most incredibly romantic gifts. But I don’t think any one else would have thought them romantic at all. One was a professional grade wok. I love it. I love cooking and had been looking for a good wok. That he took the time to find just what I wanted, and trust me it was not easy, made it more valuable to me then some fancy dinner. It was the thought and work behind the gift that made it romantic for me. The other was a small handcrafted teapot made by a professional artist in China. It was ordered about 6 months in advance. The design on it is a type of flower blossoms, with 4 on each side and lid. There was a flower for each of us, me, my husband and our two children. I collect Chinese teapots so he knew I would like it. But then he took the time to find someone to make one just for me. It has special meaning to me because of that.
Our first year together my then boyfriend, now husband, gave me a pen drawing by a local artist of two wolfs nuzzling. They were to represent us. Wolves are said to only have one mate in life, so it was to show how we were meant to be together and would be loyal and true to each other. We have it up in our living room, with other wolf pictures that we like. Wolves now are a romantic gift for us.
Here are some things that can be seen as romantic, only you know if it is the right thing for the lady in your life. There is no magic formula that works for every one. Time together, attention, and honestly focused on her wants, needs and likes are the key ingredients to a romantic gift for her.
One couple I know had a great idea for romance. It was to go for a long ride on their motorbikes. For the wife, having some thing special done to her bike, such as detailing or a nice paint job or a nice new chrome accessory was a romantic birthday gift. A night out at a country bar dancing with friends, eating bar food and playing pool, a bike ride home was romantic.
There is the traditional jewellery; promise ring and engagement ring are the biggest romantic gifts. It can be any thing that shows you care and that she loves. A charm bracelet with a charm for special moments and memories you have had together is a romantic gift. It lets you look back and remember other romantic and important times. It also shows that you value the memories as well.
Sometimes it is the things you make your self that make the best romantic gifts. A hand written birthday card with ether poetry by you or just saying that you love and appreciate her. A CD with all the songs that she loves or has meaning to both of you. Some times you cannot make things your self, but you can come up with the idea. Having a song made for her, or putting an ad in the paper saying you love her might just be the most romantic thing to her.
Presentation can be every thing. If you have the right mood/atmosphere almost any gift can be romantic. A quite meal together, a single rose, soft music, a card full of love and appreciation can go a long way. The gift could be a necklace or tickets to a theatre show. It was the way it was given that makes it romantic.
Have a day off/pamper day. This could be having the house cleaned from top to bottom (by you or some one else), the kids taken care of and she gets to take a day off. No making dinner, or cleaning up and knowing that it is not just going to be sitting there to be done the next day. It could be that she gets to go off to a spa to be pampered or stay at home with her feet up, just taking the chance to relax. If you do most of the cleaning and such then get someone else to do it so you can spend the day with her instead of the household chores that never end.
A day spent together doing some thing she likes. It could be a drive in the country, going to a carnival, watching movies, a cooking class or going to an event that she likes. It does not matter if it is sports, demolition car races, a gardening convention, or an art show. What matters is that you are doing it together and it is what she likes. The focus is on her and her likes.
A weekend or week away together some place romantic is a very popular gift. It can be in a bed and breakfast in a quite corner or a big resort that is marketed for couples. For married people, a second honeymoon is a nice gift.
I have to admit that my idea of what a romantic birthday gift is has changed. It used to be going out for diner, and a theatre show. These days for my birthday I would love to have the kids at a babysitter for the night, a big steak dinner done on our BBQ, a back massage and a birthday card with a note saying a portable dishwasher will be arriving in the morning.
Gifts for the person who likes every thing Celtic 2007 list
If the person you are buying a gift for loves Celtic you are so lucky because there is no end of Celtic theme gifts available. The real question is what will the person you are buying for like. It is not a case of not having enough to pick from but too many items to chose from. You may also need to have an idea of what a Celtic piece means.
Claddaghs symbolize romantic commitment. The Claddagh is a symbol of Love, Friendship and loyalty. The Claddagh Ring belongs to a widespread group of finger rings called Fede or Faith rings which date from Roman times. They are distinguished by having the bezel cut or cast in the form of two clasped hands, symbolizing faith, trust or plighted troth. Fede rings were popular in the Middle Ages throughout Europe.
The Claddagh ring is a particularly distinctive ring; two hands clasp a heart surmounted by a crown. The ring worn on the right hand, crown turned inward tells your heart is yet unoccupied, worn with the crown turned outwards reveals love is being considered. Worn on the left hand the crown turned outward shows all, your heart is truly spoken for.
Runes (Celtic runes) are an alphabetic script used by the peoples of Northern Europe from the first century c.e. until well into the Middle Ages. In addition to their use as a written alphabet, the runes also served as a system of symbols used for magic and divination. From the beginning Runes took on a ritualistic meaning, serving for the casting of lots, for divination, and to evoke higher powers that could influence the lives and fortunes of the people.
Runic symbols have been carved into pieces of hardwood, incised on metal or cut into leather that was then stained with pigment. The most common Runes were smooth flat stones or pebbles with symbols or glyphs painted on one side. The practitioner would keep them in a pouch, shake them and scatter the pebbles on the ground. Those falling with glyphs upward were then interpreted.
Mandalas are ancient magical, symbolic images that represent ideas of the universe and, in so doing, present a physical and visual tool for meditating. Mandalas offer balancing visual elements, symbolizing unity and harmony. The goal of mandalas is to serve as a tool on our spiritual journey as it symbolizes cosmic and psychic order. Celtic symbol mandalas are a tool for coming in contact with our origins, visions, and desires. They are also helpful for touching our divine ancestry.
The meanings of individual mandalas are usually different and unique to each mandala. The meaning of mandala comes from Sanskrit meaning "circle." Even though it may be dominated by squares or triangles, a mandala has a concentric structure. Their intricate compositions are contained within the 'eternal circle’, which is equated with the 'Wheel of Life'.
Celtic Mandalas - with their special content from the art of the ancient Celts - invariably have a dual-dimensional format, relating to the belief that it is possible to travel from the earthly realm into the Otherworld of Celtic legend.
As with all mandalas, Celtic symbol mandalas are useful in facilitating the following:
Steadying the mind
Observing the soul
Communion with Spirit/God
Re-establishing balance (external and internal)
Grounding ourselves
Intuitive channel
Understanding of ancestral origin
Triple Spiral Threefold
Triple Spiral: Represents the drawing of the three powers of maiden, mother and crone. It is a sign of female power and especially power through transition and growth.
Threefold:The centre of this symbol represents the "hub" signifying unity of the three powers.
Double Spiral:A sign of balance and also representative of the equinoxes.
A Celtic cross combines the cross with a ring surrounding the intersection. It is the characteristic symbol of Celtic Christianity, though it may have older, pre-Christian origins.
In Celtic regions of Ireland and Britain many free-standing upright crosses – or high crosses – were erected, beginning at least as early as the 7th Century. Some of these Celtic crosses bear inscriptions in runes.
Ireland, it is a popular myth that the Celtic cross was introduced to the island by Saint Patrick during his time converting the pagan Irish. It is believed that he combined the symbol of Christianity, a cross, with the symbol of the sun, to give pagan followers an idea of the importance of the cross by linking it with the idea of a pagan sun-god.
Now you have an idea of what the Celtic symbol means, now you have to decide on the type of gift. Celtic can be found in every medium out there. www.medievalmagic.ca has a wonderful selection of unique, one-of-a-kind Celtic gift ideas available.
Jewelry/Jewellery - there are a lot of Celtic designs, and more are being made every day. Most of them are marketed toward woman. The only difference between pieces that are for a man or a woman is the size and how delicate it is. Though some woman prefer the thicker stronger pieces and some men appreciate the delicate pieces. It is all preference.
There is a lot of masculine Celtic Jewellery. Men’s jewellery is part of Celtic history. If you have no idea about Celtic history here are some pieces that are a good start when looking for a gift for a man.
Celtic Cross
Thors Hammer
Thors Dog
Celtic Mandalas
Celtic runes
Triple Spiral Threefold
Any strong, thick Celtic Knotwork
If jewellery is not right for the person you are buying for you still have a huge selection available. Books, Music CD’s, Home Accents, Clothing and other accessories are all out there. Just find some thing that the person likes and then find it with a Celtic design or accent.
In books you can find Celtic history, art, designs, stories set in Celtic history, and coffee table books. Home accents, clothing and other accessories can be found with Celtic designs all over the place. However it may be easer to find them in specialty shops online then looking in a mall. This way you can find a lot in one place instead of going from store to store. Again though think of some thing the person would like any way and then look for it with a Celtic design on it. Such as an end table with a Celtic pattern inlay, or wine glasses with a Celtic pattern etched into the glass.
Music is very personal but there are a ton of Celtic musicians out there. There are two that seem to stand out this year. One is Celtic Woman. They even have a Christmas CD as well as DVD’s of live concerts. Here is their web site www.celticwoman.com. The other is Heather Dale. She is a Canadian recording artist with Celtic roots who combines elements from Celtic folk, blues, jazz and world music. She has several CD’s out. Here is her web site http://www.heatherdale.com.
Here are some others that are worth looking into as well: The Dubliners, The Clancy Brothers, The Irish Rovers or Gaelic Storm's, Brobdingnagian Bards, Celtic Soul Music, Celtic Music Web with Will Millar, Miriam Stockley.
Have a lot of fun finding the right thing. I like coffee mugs with Celtic designs, wall hangings, picture frame with Celtic knot work, Calendar with pictures of Celtic artwork, or illuminations. The list is endless if you just know what to look for.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Claddaghs symbolize romantic commitment. The Claddagh is a symbol of Love, Friendship and loyalty. The Claddagh Ring belongs to a widespread group of finger rings called Fede or Faith rings which date from Roman times. They are distinguished by having the bezel cut or cast in the form of two clasped hands, symbolizing faith, trust or plighted troth. Fede rings were popular in the Middle Ages throughout Europe.
The Claddagh ring is a particularly distinctive ring; two hands clasp a heart surmounted by a crown. The ring worn on the right hand, crown turned inward tells your heart is yet unoccupied, worn with the crown turned outwards reveals love is being considered. Worn on the left hand the crown turned outward shows all, your heart is truly spoken for.
Runes (Celtic runes) are an alphabetic script used by the peoples of Northern Europe from the first century c.e. until well into the Middle Ages. In addition to their use as a written alphabet, the runes also served as a system of symbols used for magic and divination. From the beginning Runes took on a ritualistic meaning, serving for the casting of lots, for divination, and to evoke higher powers that could influence the lives and fortunes of the people.
Runic symbols have been carved into pieces of hardwood, incised on metal or cut into leather that was then stained with pigment. The most common Runes were smooth flat stones or pebbles with symbols or glyphs painted on one side. The practitioner would keep them in a pouch, shake them and scatter the pebbles on the ground. Those falling with glyphs upward were then interpreted.
Mandalas are ancient magical, symbolic images that represent ideas of the universe and, in so doing, present a physical and visual tool for meditating. Mandalas offer balancing visual elements, symbolizing unity and harmony. The goal of mandalas is to serve as a tool on our spiritual journey as it symbolizes cosmic and psychic order. Celtic symbol mandalas are a tool for coming in contact with our origins, visions, and desires. They are also helpful for touching our divine ancestry.
The meanings of individual mandalas are usually different and unique to each mandala. The meaning of mandala comes from Sanskrit meaning "circle." Even though it may be dominated by squares or triangles, a mandala has a concentric structure. Their intricate compositions are contained within the 'eternal circle’, which is equated with the 'Wheel of Life'.
Celtic Mandalas - with their special content from the art of the ancient Celts - invariably have a dual-dimensional format, relating to the belief that it is possible to travel from the earthly realm into the Otherworld of Celtic legend.
As with all mandalas, Celtic symbol mandalas are useful in facilitating the following:
Steadying the mind
Observing the soul
Communion with Spirit/God
Re-establishing balance (external and internal)
Grounding ourselves
Intuitive channel
Understanding of ancestral origin
Triple Spiral Threefold
Triple Spiral: Represents the drawing of the three powers of maiden, mother and crone. It is a sign of female power and especially power through transition and growth.
Threefold:The centre of this symbol represents the "hub" signifying unity of the three powers.
Double Spiral:A sign of balance and also representative of the equinoxes.
A Celtic cross combines the cross with a ring surrounding the intersection. It is the characteristic symbol of Celtic Christianity, though it may have older, pre-Christian origins.
In Celtic regions of Ireland and Britain many free-standing upright crosses – or high crosses – were erected, beginning at least as early as the 7th Century. Some of these Celtic crosses bear inscriptions in runes.
Ireland, it is a popular myth that the Celtic cross was introduced to the island by Saint Patrick during his time converting the pagan Irish. It is believed that he combined the symbol of Christianity, a cross, with the symbol of the sun, to give pagan followers an idea of the importance of the cross by linking it with the idea of a pagan sun-god.
Now you have an idea of what the Celtic symbol means, now you have to decide on the type of gift. Celtic can be found in every medium out there. www.medievalmagic.ca has a wonderful selection of unique, one-of-a-kind Celtic gift ideas available.
Jewelry/Jewellery - there are a lot of Celtic designs, and more are being made every day. Most of them are marketed toward woman. The only difference between pieces that are for a man or a woman is the size and how delicate it is. Though some woman prefer the thicker stronger pieces and some men appreciate the delicate pieces. It is all preference.
There is a lot of masculine Celtic Jewellery. Men’s jewellery is part of Celtic history. If you have no idea about Celtic history here are some pieces that are a good start when looking for a gift for a man.
Celtic Cross
Thors Hammer
Thors Dog
Celtic Mandalas
Celtic runes
Triple Spiral Threefold
Any strong, thick Celtic Knotwork
If jewellery is not right for the person you are buying for you still have a huge selection available. Books, Music CD’s, Home Accents, Clothing and other accessories are all out there. Just find some thing that the person likes and then find it with a Celtic design or accent.
In books you can find Celtic history, art, designs, stories set in Celtic history, and coffee table books. Home accents, clothing and other accessories can be found with Celtic designs all over the place. However it may be easer to find them in specialty shops online then looking in a mall. This way you can find a lot in one place instead of going from store to store. Again though think of some thing the person would like any way and then look for it with a Celtic design on it. Such as an end table with a Celtic pattern inlay, or wine glasses with a Celtic pattern etched into the glass.
Music is very personal but there are a ton of Celtic musicians out there. There are two that seem to stand out this year. One is Celtic Woman. They even have a Christmas CD as well as DVD’s of live concerts. Here is their web site www.celticwoman.com. The other is Heather Dale. She is a Canadian recording artist with Celtic roots who combines elements from Celtic folk, blues, jazz and world music. She has several CD’s out. Here is her web site http://www.heatherdale.com.
Here are some others that are worth looking into as well: The Dubliners, The Clancy Brothers, The Irish Rovers or Gaelic Storm's, Brobdingnagian Bards, Celtic Soul Music, Celtic Music Web with Will Millar, Miriam Stockley.
Have a lot of fun finding the right thing. I like coffee mugs with Celtic designs, wall hangings, picture frame with Celtic knot work, Calendar with pictures of Celtic artwork, or illuminations. The list is endless if you just know what to look for.
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
Top Christmas Gifts for boys 4 years and up 2007
1) The number one top Christmas gift that boys are going to be asking for this year is also going to be the hardest one to find. It is already starting fights in stores. It is the Transformer Bumble Bee from the new Transformer movie. The $15.00 transformable transformer is almost impossible to get already. People are starting to buy up the more expensive ones now. Why is it selling out so fast? Not just little boys are asking for Bumble Bee. It is popular with adults as well, so there is a high demand for this Transformer. If you have a kid who wants Bumble Bee you better buy it now other wise all you will be able to get is the module/statue ones. And little boys do not want those ones because they do not transform.
2) The second will be all the other transformer toys from the movie. Only the ones that transform, not the module/statue ones because little boys don’t not want the ones that do not transform. When people are unable to buy Bumble Bee they are going to buy what ever other transformer their kids like, or can find. So get them well you can.
3) Fisher-Price Imaginext dinosaurs. There is a nice selection of dinosaurs so you will have a better chance of getting the one your kid wants. The price is not too high and the selection will let you buy several different types.
4) Spiderman toys are very popular as well. There is even a larger selection of Spiderman toys, games and figures then the transformer toys right now. So the demand by little kids will be high, you do not run the same risk of running out options, as you will with the transformer toys.
5) Yugioh Cards and toys are still in demand and I believe that there are some good computer video Yogioh games out there. The collector tins of Yugioh cards are selling out right now.
6) Diego is very popular. The videos, toys and books are all popular. You can even get furniture, home accessories and even clothing. There is almost no end to Diego products available. You can get big gifts and stocking stuffers quite easily.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
2) The second will be all the other transformer toys from the movie. Only the ones that transform, not the module/statue ones because little boys don’t not want the ones that do not transform. When people are unable to buy Bumble Bee they are going to buy what ever other transformer their kids like, or can find. So get them well you can.
3) Fisher-Price Imaginext dinosaurs. There is a nice selection of dinosaurs so you will have a better chance of getting the one your kid wants. The price is not too high and the selection will let you buy several different types.
4) Spiderman toys are very popular as well. There is even a larger selection of Spiderman toys, games and figures then the transformer toys right now. So the demand by little kids will be high, you do not run the same risk of running out options, as you will with the transformer toys.
5) Yugioh Cards and toys are still in demand and I believe that there are some good computer video Yogioh games out there. The collector tins of Yugioh cards are selling out right now.
6) Diego is very popular. The videos, toys and books are all popular. You can even get furniture, home accessories and even clothing. There is almost no end to Diego products available. You can get big gifts and stocking stuffers quite easily.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
Christmas 2007 Plants and botany-related gift ideas
Anyone at any age can enjoy plants and botany. Summer is a great time to enjoy nature, take walks, plant a garden, or just enjoy public gardens. Winter makes it harder to enjoy these things. It also makes it harder to find the right plant and botany-related Christmas gift. However I have made a list of some wonderful Christmas 2007 Plants and botany-related gift ideas.
1) Top gift is a greenhouse or a terrarium. This can be as big as a freestanding building outside with glass windows and vents, or for those of us who do not have Thousands to spend, it could be a small indoor small portable terrarium. There are a lot of theme indoor terrarium kits available. Here are some fun and interesting kits:
1) Biblical Garden Terrarium Kit, create an ancient Biblical landscape with plants used and talked about in the Bible. A good theme for a Christmas gift. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
2) Princess Garden Windowsill Greenhouse Kit, grow beautiful, blooming plants in a setting overflowing with magical treasures. Kit includes glitter glue, silver flower beads, and jewel dragonflies. The Princess Conservatory will start sprouting in a week and will bloom within three months. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
3) Fairy Triad Garden Kit, create a fairy wonderland. This amazing kit comes with everything needed to get your indoor fairy garden growing and attracting fairies to your home-Lobelia to attract fairies, Thyme to enable you to see them, Evening Star to make fairy brews, and more. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
4) Witches' Woods Terrarium Kit, grow legendary witches' plants with this new, enchanting terrarium. This mystical garden contains plants used to make flying potions, ward off the Evil Eye, attract money, and help to see the future. Witches' Woods also contains plants used in love charms, healing rituals, hex-breaking, and much more. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
5) Graveyard Gothic Garden Terrarium Kit The Gothic Garden celebrates plants that are strange, ugly, and unusual. Even the seeds of some of these plants are bizarre. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
6) TickleMe Plant Growing Kit. This kit includes all the supplies that you need to start growing your own TickleMe Plant Family. Kit contains (1) Jiffy Mini-Greenhouse (5"x4"x2.5"), (6) peat pellets, (1) seed packet, and Easy to Grow Instructions. This kit is $9.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
7) Healing Garden Kit. This windowsill growing kit provides seeds, decorative sensory stones, natural gravel, and more to help you create your own healing garden. This kit is $14.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
8) Exotic Jungle World Alive Carnivorous Plants. Plant the Venus Fly Trap, Mimosa, and Mixed Coleus seeds included in this kit. Watch them bloom into insect eating wonders of the plant world. This kit is $30.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
9) Desktop Desert Hothouse Kit. Grow dessert plants in a windowsill greenhouse. Seed pack includes Aloe, Joshua tree, Agave, Pony Tail Palm, Ice Plant and mixed Cacti Seed Pack. This kit is $14.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
10) Carnivorous Creations Terrarium Kit, grow a collection of feared and famous meat eating plants. Make an authentic bog with the included peat planting mix, blue Swamp Rocks, three Bog Buddies and full color decals. This kit is $24.95 at www.physlink.com.
11) Culinary Herb Garden. Learn how to grow, harvest, and use many popular herbs! Sprouts in days and ready to use in under two weeks! Contains basil, cilantro, sage, dill, and parsley. This mini garden is $24.95 at www.physlink.com.
12) Dinosaur Park Garden. This prehistoric kit contains a growing greenhouse, Asparagus fern seed, 2 toy dinosaurs, red and black lava rock and red gravel. This garden is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
13) Plant-It-Earth. Perfect for Creating Your Own Terrarium. This unique creation by Spherical Concepts lets you turn the Planet Earth into your own personal terrarium. These hand-sculpted transparent spheres are elegantly silk-screened with the Earth's continents in translucent white to let the beauty of your plants show through. Plant-It-Earth spheres are crafted of museum-quality cast acrylic to give the appearance of fine crystal. Included are a signed and dated Certificate of Authenticity, helpful instructions for planting, and a clear base to display your creation. This is $80.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
2) Plants and seeds: These are always great gifts. You can find some great plants and seeds at any local garden store or in a garden department. However it is fun to find and give the unusual that may not be available locally.
Mini Pet Cactus. This is a pet cactus that comes in its own little terrarium with a strap to attach to a jacket, cell phone or anything so that it can be taken everywhere. All it needs is to be watered once a month for about a minute, instructions are on packaging. This is $8.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Grow A Peanut Bush. Includes 3 Spanish peanut seeds, a starter cup, red yarn and complete instructions. At least one seed is guaranteed to sprout in 2-4 days. This is $2.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
The Amazing Desktop Dinosaur Plant. This one-of-a-kind plant has lived on the Earth for over 290 million years and has the ability to “come back to life” over and over again for hundreds of years. Simply place this seemingly dead ball of foliage in water and within hours it transforms into a vibrant green evergreen. This plant is $7.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Unusual seeds are a great stocking stuffer.
1) Sensitive plant seeds. Botanical name: Mimosa pudica. Origin: Brazil. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
2) Brain Plant Seeds Dwarf plant has 10 inch flowers. Cut flowers last for years. Botanical Name: Celosia Amigo Mix. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
3) Banana Tree Seeds. The banana is not a tree; it’s actually the world’s largest herb. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
4) Black Dragon Coleus Seeds. There are an amazing amount of varieties with different leaf colors and shapes with this plant. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
5) Mexican Cigar Plant Seeds. As the flower of the plant matures, it extends a thin threadlike pistil that looks like the fuse on a firecracker. It flowers all year round and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
6) Aloe Seeds. The first mention of using the aloe plant as medicine dates back to 1700 B.C. Cleopatra supposedly bathed in the juices of the plant to maintain her youthful appearance. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
7) Pony Tail Palm Seeds. This fantastic plant gets its namesake from its long thin leaves. The trunk of the plant is palm-like when young and as it ages it forms a bulbous base that holds water. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
3) Microscope and accessories: To take a close up look at plant life. This is a lot of fun to see how plants work.
Edmund Scientifics Illuminated 30X Pocket Microscope. This is one of the more popular educational handheld microscopes. This is $10.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
MicroMax 60x-100x Zoom Pocket Microscope with light. A powerful 60-100x magnification microscope with an extremely lightweight and portable design, the MicroMax features a built-in light that provides a bright, clear image and a rubberized eyepiece for comfortable viewing. This microscope is $14.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Konus Youth Microscope Set Microscope, Viewer, Projector & Camera Attachment - All In One. The Konus Youth Microscope functions as a zoom microscope, viewer, wall projector, paper projector and camera attachment. Its durability makes it a great first microscope. This set is $49.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Motic DigiScope 150 or Motic DigiScope 300. These are beginner models and are LED field microscopes with built-in CMOS digital camera. Used alone, they are completely portable microscopes. Combined with the camera and a computer, the possibilities are nearly limitless. Designed for younger students with software developed to engage their minds. These sets are each $169.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Biological Specimen Sliding Microtome. This has a fixed blade, clear plexiglass guard and sliding specimen holder for extra-safe operation. Slide the holder from top to bottom along the rail to cut extremely thin specimens to 40 to 50 microns. Feed screw advances 0.5mm per rotation. Includes 3 double-sided blades. This is $119.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Beginner Slide making Kit. This kit contains 12 glass microscope slides, 100 individual glass 18mm cover slips, mounting medium and dropper. This kit is $17.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
4) Books
Books are great gifts, easy to find and can be used even when there is snow on the ground. Here are a couple of books I found. However there are so many books on this subject that can be found in your local bookstore that all you have to do is go in and find one that looks interesting.
“Seeds: Time Capsules Of Life”. A remarkable collaboration of art and science celebrating the diversity of seeds. This is $39.60 at www.chapters.indigo.ca.
“Rainforest”. Join photographer Marent as he captures images of rainforest life and tells the story of his journey through spectacular, full-color photos. Includes a 70-minute audio CD of the unique sounds of the rainforest. This is $33.00 at www.chapters.indigo.ca.
“In Your Greenhouse - A Beginner's Guide” book. This is an easy-to-read 75-page greenhouse gardening book guide for the novice greenhouse gardener. This book is $10.95 at www.birchpublishing.com.
“Encyclopedia of Exotic Plants for Temperate Climates.” This book is $49.95 at www.timberpress.com.
5) Slides, Models, and Learning tools: These can be a lot of fun.
Here are some pre-made slides.
Slide, Set/10, Roots & Stems of Flowering Plants
Slide, Set/10, Fungi, Mushrooms & Algae
Slide, Set/10, Growth & Reproduction of Cells
Slide, Set/10, The Wonderful Structure of Plant Cell
For each set $29.95 http://scientificsonline.com.
Biology Knowledge. Cards With questions on one side and answers on the other, these 48 fact-filled Knowledge Cards are a great source of condensed information. These are $8.95 at www.physlink.com.
Cross Section Plant Cell Model. Learn more about how plants are actually structured through this interesting plant cell model. Made of durable soft foam and realistically detailed, this model depicts all the major organelles of the plant cell. Parts of the cell are labelled on one side of the model. This model is $16.95 at www.physlink.com.
Root-Vue Farm. A fascinating garden lab that let’s you view the underground development of seeds and roots. Watch carrots, radishes and onions take form. Kit includes a sturdy grow box with an acrylic see-through window. Kit includes a light shield, soil mix, seeds, identification labels and instructions. This kit is $25.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Young Scientists Science On a Nature Walk Field Experiments Galore kit. This kit includes all the necessary tools such as binoculars, butterfly net, magnifying glass, whistle, chromatography paper, data entry book, plaster, tracking guide, and waist belt pouch to carry some of these items. This kit is $23.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com.
6) Stuff for Gardening: Things for gardening can be a lot of fun.
Hands & Knees TubTrug Gift Set. It’s practical and fun. The Knees & Hands gift comes in the brightest of color combinations. These sets are $42.00 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
7) Theme gifts. You may not be able to give a garden of flowers for Christmas but you can still give theme gifts.
Cards:
Celtic Birds, Hounds and Flowers Greeting Card is $1.07 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Celtic Birds, Hounds and Flowers Greeting Card is $1.07 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Clothing:
I Fought the Lawn Gift. This fun lawn gift set has a "I Fought the Lawn and the Lawn Won" t-Shirt , a pair of Lawn Aerating Sandals", and a pair of Fiskars Grass Shears. This is $65 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
Jewelry:
1) Cluster Pin Set. Set of 3 cluster pins a flowerpot, daffodil and watering can all in pewter. This set is $15 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
2) Sterling Silver Celtic Thistle Brooch Peridoet Center. This brooch is $38.51 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
3) Trowel necklace with beads in pewter hung from a black cord. 2" Trowel. This necklace is $18 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
4) Pewter Tri-Sunflower beaded necklace is $13.37 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
5) Watering Can key ring in pewter. This key ring is $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
6) Garden Flat Bracelet. Six garden pieces are linked together - claw, glove, trowel, seed packet, pruners, and another glove to form a 7.5 " bracelet. This set is $28 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
7) Vegetable Push Pins. Four different pewter veggies (2 of each style) to use on the bulletin board. This is $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
8) Watering Flowers Earrings are $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
9) Sterling silver ring has a simple Celtic pattern with flowers is $15.24 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
1) Top gift is a greenhouse or a terrarium. This can be as big as a freestanding building outside with glass windows and vents, or for those of us who do not have Thousands to spend, it could be a small indoor small portable terrarium. There are a lot of theme indoor terrarium kits available. Here are some fun and interesting kits:
1) Biblical Garden Terrarium Kit, create an ancient Biblical landscape with plants used and talked about in the Bible. A good theme for a Christmas gift. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
2) Princess Garden Windowsill Greenhouse Kit, grow beautiful, blooming plants in a setting overflowing with magical treasures. Kit includes glitter glue, silver flower beads, and jewel dragonflies. The Princess Conservatory will start sprouting in a week and will bloom within three months. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
3) Fairy Triad Garden Kit, create a fairy wonderland. This amazing kit comes with everything needed to get your indoor fairy garden growing and attracting fairies to your home-Lobelia to attract fairies, Thyme to enable you to see them, Evening Star to make fairy brews, and more. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
4) Witches' Woods Terrarium Kit, grow legendary witches' plants with this new, enchanting terrarium. This mystical garden contains plants used to make flying potions, ward off the Evil Eye, attract money, and help to see the future. Witches' Woods also contains plants used in love charms, healing rituals, hex-breaking, and much more. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
5) Graveyard Gothic Garden Terrarium Kit The Gothic Garden celebrates plants that are strange, ugly, and unusual. Even the seeds of some of these plants are bizarre. These Terrarium kit is $23.95 at www.discoverthis.com.
6) TickleMe Plant Growing Kit. This kit includes all the supplies that you need to start growing your own TickleMe Plant Family. Kit contains (1) Jiffy Mini-Greenhouse (5"x4"x2.5"), (6) peat pellets, (1) seed packet, and Easy to Grow Instructions. This kit is $9.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
7) Healing Garden Kit. This windowsill growing kit provides seeds, decorative sensory stones, natural gravel, and more to help you create your own healing garden. This kit is $14.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
8) Exotic Jungle World Alive Carnivorous Plants. Plant the Venus Fly Trap, Mimosa, and Mixed Coleus seeds included in this kit. Watch them bloom into insect eating wonders of the plant world. This kit is $30.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
9) Desktop Desert Hothouse Kit. Grow dessert plants in a windowsill greenhouse. Seed pack includes Aloe, Joshua tree, Agave, Pony Tail Palm, Ice Plant and mixed Cacti Seed Pack. This kit is $14.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
10) Carnivorous Creations Terrarium Kit, grow a collection of feared and famous meat eating plants. Make an authentic bog with the included peat planting mix, blue Swamp Rocks, three Bog Buddies and full color decals. This kit is $24.95 at www.physlink.com.
11) Culinary Herb Garden. Learn how to grow, harvest, and use many popular herbs! Sprouts in days and ready to use in under two weeks! Contains basil, cilantro, sage, dill, and parsley. This mini garden is $24.95 at www.physlink.com.
12) Dinosaur Park Garden. This prehistoric kit contains a growing greenhouse, Asparagus fern seed, 2 toy dinosaurs, red and black lava rock and red gravel. This garden is $14.95 at www.physlink.com.
13) Plant-It-Earth. Perfect for Creating Your Own Terrarium. This unique creation by Spherical Concepts lets you turn the Planet Earth into your own personal terrarium. These hand-sculpted transparent spheres are elegantly silk-screened with the Earth's continents in translucent white to let the beauty of your plants show through. Plant-It-Earth spheres are crafted of museum-quality cast acrylic to give the appearance of fine crystal. Included are a signed and dated Certificate of Authenticity, helpful instructions for planting, and a clear base to display your creation. This is $80.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
2) Plants and seeds: These are always great gifts. You can find some great plants and seeds at any local garden store or in a garden department. However it is fun to find and give the unusual that may not be available locally.
Mini Pet Cactus. This is a pet cactus that comes in its own little terrarium with a strap to attach to a jacket, cell phone or anything so that it can be taken everywhere. All it needs is to be watered once a month for about a minute, instructions are on packaging. This is $8.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Grow A Peanut Bush. Includes 3 Spanish peanut seeds, a starter cup, red yarn and complete instructions. At least one seed is guaranteed to sprout in 2-4 days. This is $2.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
The Amazing Desktop Dinosaur Plant. This one-of-a-kind plant has lived on the Earth for over 290 million years and has the ability to “come back to life” over and over again for hundreds of years. Simply place this seemingly dead ball of foliage in water and within hours it transforms into a vibrant green evergreen. This plant is $7.99 at www.thinkgeek.com.
Unusual seeds are a great stocking stuffer.
1) Sensitive plant seeds. Botanical name: Mimosa pudica. Origin: Brazil. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
2) Brain Plant Seeds Dwarf plant has 10 inch flowers. Cut flowers last for years. Botanical Name: Celosia Amigo Mix. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
3) Banana Tree Seeds. The banana is not a tree; it’s actually the world’s largest herb. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
4) Black Dragon Coleus Seeds. There are an amazing amount of varieties with different leaf colors and shapes with this plant. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
5) Mexican Cigar Plant Seeds. As the flower of the plant matures, it extends a thin threadlike pistil that looks like the fuse on a firecracker. It flowers all year round and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
6) Aloe Seeds. The first mention of using the aloe plant as medicine dates back to 1700 B.C. Cleopatra supposedly bathed in the juices of the plant to maintain her youthful appearance. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
7) Pony Tail Palm Seeds. This fantastic plant gets its namesake from its long thin leaves. The trunk of the plant is palm-like when young and as it ages it forms a bulbous base that holds water. This package of seeds is $2.50 at www.physlink.com.
3) Microscope and accessories: To take a close up look at plant life. This is a lot of fun to see how plants work.
Edmund Scientifics Illuminated 30X Pocket Microscope. This is one of the more popular educational handheld microscopes. This is $10.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
MicroMax 60x-100x Zoom Pocket Microscope with light. A powerful 60-100x magnification microscope with an extremely lightweight and portable design, the MicroMax features a built-in light that provides a bright, clear image and a rubberized eyepiece for comfortable viewing. This microscope is $14.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Konus Youth Microscope Set Microscope, Viewer, Projector & Camera Attachment - All In One. The Konus Youth Microscope functions as a zoom microscope, viewer, wall projector, paper projector and camera attachment. Its durability makes it a great first microscope. This set is $49.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Motic DigiScope 150 or Motic DigiScope 300. These are beginner models and are LED field microscopes with built-in CMOS digital camera. Used alone, they are completely portable microscopes. Combined with the camera and a computer, the possibilities are nearly limitless. Designed for younger students with software developed to engage their minds. These sets are each $169.00 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Biological Specimen Sliding Microtome. This has a fixed blade, clear plexiglass guard and sliding specimen holder for extra-safe operation. Slide the holder from top to bottom along the rail to cut extremely thin specimens to 40 to 50 microns. Feed screw advances 0.5mm per rotation. Includes 3 double-sided blades. This is $119.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Beginner Slide making Kit. This kit contains 12 glass microscope slides, 100 individual glass 18mm cover slips, mounting medium and dropper. This kit is $17.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
4) Books
Books are great gifts, easy to find and can be used even when there is snow on the ground. Here are a couple of books I found. However there are so many books on this subject that can be found in your local bookstore that all you have to do is go in and find one that looks interesting.
“Seeds: Time Capsules Of Life”. A remarkable collaboration of art and science celebrating the diversity of seeds. This is $39.60 at www.chapters.indigo.ca.
“Rainforest”. Join photographer Marent as he captures images of rainforest life and tells the story of his journey through spectacular, full-color photos. Includes a 70-minute audio CD of the unique sounds of the rainforest. This is $33.00 at www.chapters.indigo.ca.
“In Your Greenhouse - A Beginner's Guide” book. This is an easy-to-read 75-page greenhouse gardening book guide for the novice greenhouse gardener. This book is $10.95 at www.birchpublishing.com.
“Encyclopedia of Exotic Plants for Temperate Climates.” This book is $49.95 at www.timberpress.com.
5) Slides, Models, and Learning tools: These can be a lot of fun.
Here are some pre-made slides.
Slide, Set/10, Roots & Stems of Flowering Plants
Slide, Set/10, Fungi, Mushrooms & Algae
Slide, Set/10, Growth & Reproduction of Cells
Slide, Set/10, The Wonderful Structure of Plant Cell
For each set $29.95 http://scientificsonline.com.
Biology Knowledge. Cards With questions on one side and answers on the other, these 48 fact-filled Knowledge Cards are a great source of condensed information. These are $8.95 at www.physlink.com.
Cross Section Plant Cell Model. Learn more about how plants are actually structured through this interesting plant cell model. Made of durable soft foam and realistically detailed, this model depicts all the major organelles of the plant cell. Parts of the cell are labelled on one side of the model. This model is $16.95 at www.physlink.com.
Root-Vue Farm. A fascinating garden lab that let’s you view the underground development of seeds and roots. Watch carrots, radishes and onions take form. Kit includes a sturdy grow box with an acrylic see-through window. Kit includes a light shield, soil mix, seeds, identification labels and instructions. This kit is $25.95 at http://scientificsonline.com.
Young Scientists Science On a Nature Walk Field Experiments Galore kit. This kit includes all the necessary tools such as binoculars, butterfly net, magnifying glass, whistle, chromatography paper, data entry book, plaster, tracking guide, and waist belt pouch to carry some of these items. This kit is $23.95 at http://www.discoverthis.com.
6) Stuff for Gardening: Things for gardening can be a lot of fun.
Hands & Knees TubTrug Gift Set. It’s practical and fun. The Knees & Hands gift comes in the brightest of color combinations. These sets are $42.00 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
7) Theme gifts. You may not be able to give a garden of flowers for Christmas but you can still give theme gifts.
Cards:
Celtic Birds, Hounds and Flowers Greeting Card is $1.07 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Celtic Birds, Hounds and Flowers Greeting Card is $1.07 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Clothing:
I Fought the Lawn Gift. This fun lawn gift set has a "I Fought the Lawn and the Lawn Won" t-Shirt , a pair of Lawn Aerating Sandals", and a pair of Fiskars Grass Shears. This is $65 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
Jewelry:
1) Cluster Pin Set. Set of 3 cluster pins a flowerpot, daffodil and watering can all in pewter. This set is $15 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
2) Sterling Silver Celtic Thistle Brooch Peridoet Center. This brooch is $38.51 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
3) Trowel necklace with beads in pewter hung from a black cord. 2" Trowel. This necklace is $18 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
4) Pewter Tri-Sunflower beaded necklace is $13.37 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
5) Watering Can key ring in pewter. This key ring is $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
6) Garden Flat Bracelet. Six garden pieces are linked together - claw, glove, trowel, seed packet, pruners, and another glove to form a 7.5 " bracelet. This set is $28 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
7) Vegetable Push Pins. Four different pewter veggies (2 of each style) to use on the bulletin board. This is $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
8) Watering Flowers Earrings are $12 at www.gardenscapetools.com.
9) Sterling silver ring has a simple Celtic pattern with flowers is $15.24 at www.medievalmagic.ca.
Written by: Lori-Lee Craig
Medieval Magic
www.medievalmagic.ca
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