61. PolitiCard 2012 Playing Cards
For the politically driven in your family, the PolitiCard 2012 Playing Cards featuring caricatures from illustrator Peter Green make a great souvenir stocking stuffer to commemorate what has been one of the most bitterly divided years in the American electorate bar-none. But forget all that rhetoric. Instead use these cards to play some of your favorite games while getting a chuckle or two from each cartoonish drawing. In this year’s pack, the Who’s Who of national politics are re-cast as characters from popular feature films. And best of all, it’ll get that armchair politician in your life away from Facebook!
62. Mini Exotic Candy Bar Library
We’ve said it once, we’ll say it again: candy makes for one of the best stocking stuffers around. But why do the same thing year after year when you can change it up a bit with this classy, elegant and exotic collection of unique candy bars? Black Pearl, Red Fire, Naga, Creole, Barcelona, Woolloomooloo, Oaxaca, Bapchi’s Caramel Toffee, and Milk Chocolate Bacon, are among the selections which come in a monarchal slipcase that sits nicely on a bookshelf until the recipient is ready for consumption.
63. Swiss+Tech MMCSSS Micro-Max 19-in-1 Keychain Multitool
The Swiss+Tech MMCSSS Micro-Max 19-in-1 Keychain Multitool—if you think that’s a mouthful to say, you should try to explore all of its functions. Featuring a wire crimper, a selection of screwdrivers, a bottle opener, pliers and more, this will make the life of the family handyman easier, and it will also serve any family member well in emergency situations.
64. Socrates Socks
These aren’t just any socks we’re talking about. Socrates Socks are protected by kevlar, which means that no matter how long you own them and no matter how much you wear, they’ll never get an annoying hole in the toe. Strong elastic band also ensures no slippage, and the sock itself doesn’t get weighted down by this extra durability. Perfect athletic support for your feet.
65. Logitech Cube
In January Logitech launched the Logitech Cube—not in time for the 2011 holidays, but 2012 is another story. What the Logitech Cube does is this: it allows you to navigate the screen with the same convenience of a mouse, but the moment you pick it up, it switches effortlessly to presentation mode and becomes a clicker. Improving the fluidity and efficiency of your business presentation has never been easier, and it fits into any stocking with ease.
66. IndieFlix Film Festival in a Box
Got any film lovers in your family? (Who doesn’t?) If so, then maybe try Film Festival in a Box from IndieFlix. The “game” works simply enough. Just watch four short films. Play trivia. Choose best picture. And if you feel so inclined, share your votes online to expand your community of film geeks beyond the household. In the process you’re supporting independent filmmakers, and that’s gotta feel good. Available in a number of different genres. So pop up some popcorn and get busy.
67. The Storymatic Game
Maybe it’s just the writer in me, but The Storymatic Game rocks. Seriously. Promising “six trillion stories in one little box,” here’s how it works: you draw two gold cards to establish a complex character. (Opera singing diner waitress, anyone?) Then, you draw one or two copper colored cards to set the events in motion. After that, it’s up to you to tell the story right. Great for classroom settings, parties, or just your own personal writing time. Also available in a kids’ version.
68. iHome Charge Your World Station
We’ve discussed personal chargers for on-the-go lifestyles, but what about when you’re sitting at the house? Then, you’re going to need the iHome Charge Your World Station, which has a place for the iPad, iPhone, iPod, Blackberry and eReader devices. Powers four devices simultaneously, which means that whether you’re in the mood to work, read, game or watch videos, you’ll always have the power to do it.
69. Used/First Generation eReader Devices
Nooks, Kindles, off-brands—there has never been a better time to crack open a good used or first generation eReader device. While more expensive counterparts such as the Nook Tablet HD or the Kindle Fire HD or the iPad Mini may be the coveted gifts this year, all you really need is a good old black-and-white device devoted entirely to books. Many are small enough to fit into a stocking and with the more advanced tablet readers now available, you can pick up cheaper models for less than $100 (with some on Amazon as low as $30). Shop around for the best deals.
70. ChordBuddy Guitar Learning System
Didn’t think it would ever be possible to teach these uncoordinated fingers how to play guitar until seeing the ChordBuddy Guitar Learning System on Shark Tank. It’s easy to believe how this idea became a viable business. Red, blue, yellow and green teach you the basic chords with ease, and before you know it you’ll be playing “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy” just like John Rich, an official spokesperson/demonstrator for the brand. You’re out of excuses, people. Get to strumming!
