We all have times when we need to buy gifts for both our friends and our
families. Some of these occasions will come along regularly once a year such
as birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas. Other occasions may not happen
that frequently but they still merit a gift. For example, you might buy
gifts for weddings, christenings, baby showers, exam success and graduation.
Sometimes these occasions that come along warrant an extra special gift.
You only pass your driving test or get your first job once, after
all.

Choosing the right gift

Buying the right gift does require some thought. A successful gift will
appeal to the person who gets it simply because they will like it. This
doesn`t mean that you have to give something obvious such as something that
relates to a hobby or interest. It simply means that you should put some
thought into what they would like to receive.

So, for example, you should think about the age and sex of the person who
will receive the gift. On paper your 90 year old grandmother may really like
a special box of chocolates but may not be so happy with the home brewing
kit that your father might prefer! But, if your grandmother likes home
brewed ale then this could be a good choice. Sometimes the personality and
likes/dislikes of the person you are buying for will buck standard
trends.

Conclusion

Finally, don`t forget about the card you choose here to go with your gift
which can enhance the overall message that you want to give. The verses
written inside, for example, can often be useful to look at here whether you
are looking for 1st anniversary gifts and presents or something suitable for a Golden wedding anniversary.

Roy at A1 Gifts

A new iPhone application Snocator, as in snow locator, provides your current location on a trail map while on the mountain at your favorite ski resort.   Snocator is from the Denver, Colorado company Useful Networks that specialize in mobile location applications.

Snocator is like an interactive trail map guide that gives the skier information while on the mountain.  Need to find the closest restaurant for a lunch break?  Looking to find your friends on the mountain (not yet available)?  How about finding the fastest non-black trail down at the end of the day when you legs feel like mush?   A skier just needs to tap away on their iPhone to get their locations on the trail map.

Other nice features are up-to-the-minute weather forecasts, mountain camera views and snow reports.  Trail maps are available for 60 plus resorts in 12 US states and Canada this season.

Snocator works anywhere there is cell phone or WiFi access.  It is best to download the trail maps before you are on the mountain in case you are in an area out of reach by the cell phone towers.  Having the 3G iPhone with GPS capability provides the most accurate location information.

The application costs $5.99 and needs to be updated each year.  Snocator application versions are planned for Blackberry and phones using Google’s Android operating system.

According to their web site, features coming in the future are keeping track of others on the mountain and the capability to log your speed and vertical drop.

When it comes to placemats, drink coasters and table runners, there are many different colors and materials being used.  These Beach Stone Placemats are certainly different.  You can bring the beach or rocky shore to your table.  These would be perfect for that backyard gathering around the picnic table.  For a change in dinning experience, this is a great idea.

These were found at Kaboodle.  These Beach Stone pieces are created by hand using river rocks that have been washed and polished.

Trying to make a decision between a Fire Pit and a Fountain to add usability to your patio, here is both in a single unit.  Enjoy the atmosphere at any backyard gathering with this one!  This product is found at FirePits.com.

• Fire pit and 3-tiered bowl fountain
• Fire-retardant, inorganic material exterior
• Steel frame and stainless steel burner
• Uses standard liquid propane gas tanks
• Generates 30,000 BTUs for generous warmth
• Lava rocks give flame a realistic look (included)
• Lights illuminate the water for additional ambiance

The Lucia Firebowl Fountain integrates the essential elements of fire and water into its captivating design. The firebowl is situated on top of the pillar, providing light and warmth for your patio all year long. Three bowls, all of the same rustic orange color, form the descending tiers of the fountain below. The soothing water sounds and dancing flames will provide a spectacular contrast for you to enjoy with friends and family on your patio or beside your backyard pool.