For the record

Normally my posts are aimed at finding the perfect gift for a certain type of person, but there are a few items out there that I just have to mention before Christmas and I will run out of time to do so without this post. So, for the record, these are some of my favorite gifts this year (if anyone needs gift ideas for me, feel free to use this as a guide!):

I have been wanting to learn more French for awhile, and I think Rosetta Stone is the best choice to help me do just that (unless someone wants to send me to France, of course!). My father thinks I want to learn French so I can move to Paris... not a bad idea, pops!

I know these pink glitter Toms (available in more sizes at Nordstrom) are a bit self-indulgent, but I love them and don't care who knows it.

Apple's iPad (shown here in 64 GB Wi-Fi + 3G model) is one of the hottest gadgets on the market this year; unfortunately, my MacBook uses an older operating system than the iPad requires for syncing, so this indulgence will have to wait...

...unless someone also wants to get me a new MacBook Pro! Mine has been through 3 years of law school (a miracle in itself) plus another year of miscellaneous use, which is quite impressive. It deserves a break.

The iPhone 4 has great new features like video and a 5 megapixel camera and is one of the best selling phones on the market. I have wanted an iPhone since I first heard rumors of its existence. Now that it seems a Verizon model is looming, maybe the time has come for me to take the plunge!

Sadly, my favorite show is over, but Lost will live on in the hearts and time-traveling minds of fans everywhere.

I recently discovered the show Lie to Me, about deception experts, and I am a bit obsessed. Telling Lies is the real-life inspiration for the series, and I can't wait to start reading it.

The Louis Vuitton Speedy is a classic - I prefer to think of it as an investment rather than a bag. Available from Louis Vuitton and LV boutiques in 4 sizes (25, 30, 35, 40), shown here in 35.

These rubber mocs from LL Bean are perfect for rainy days (or just because). I love the khaki/navy version, but there are also more colors to choose from.

The Trackstick Mini is a tiny, USB-like device that tracks your journeys and allows for geotagging photos, retracing your route, and marking favorite spots for easy return. Just turn it on and go on your merry way. When you get home, plug it into your computer and upload your travels. Perfect for travelers and outdoorsmen. There is also an iPhone app called Walkabout that does the same thing.

This sterling silver fingerprint signet ring is a unique gift that would be perfect for moms or even as an engagement or wedding ring. Submit your desired fingerprint and the artists will transform it into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Also available in gold and platinum.

I don't usually get excited about furniture, but this map chair caught my attention. These made-to-order chairs feature the location of your choice in decoupage, ready for duty in your home or office.

Every worker needs a nameplate - and what better way to introduce yourself than a whimsical version you won't find elsewhere! The Scrabble letters nameplate is a great choice for a new hire or for a home office.

• Pink peacoat: I don't have a certain version in mind, but you can't go wrong with Gap!
• Nap blanket (or nap snuggie): this is seriously the most comfortable blanket you will ever feel. And right now, Brookstone has them buy 1, get 1 half off!
• Decision Points by former President George W. Bush: love him or hate him, this is a rare chance to see inside the mind of one of the world's most powerful people. In case anyone is concerned about partisanship, I also own Bill Clinton's My Life.
• Ireland: you can buy a square foot of Irish countryside for only $49.99. It comes with pictures and directions in case you want to visit your domain. I think I would like to be called "Queen Gift Guru" among my woodland subjects.
• T-shirt blanket: take old t-shirts and make them into a comfy blanket than you can use or display. This makes a great graduation gift. Available from multiple sellers around the web (Google "tshirt blanket") or make your own!
• The Book of Awesome: this book, from the author of 1000 Awesome Things blog, is a blend of childhood memories, witty observations, and general feel-good sentiments that would suit almost any recipient. 

What's on your list this year?

For the college loyalist

In honor of my home state's (SC) big day today (Carolina vs. Clemson, generally referred to as "The Game" with no further explanation needed), I thought that gifts for your college loyalist recipient would be appropriate. Most of these items come in a wide variety of schools - check the links to see if your favorite school or team is available!

For the Carolina Gamecock:
As a holder of 3 degrees from the University of South Carolina, I am naturally biased toward the Gamecocks and that beautiful garnet and black. Here are some of my favorite USC products:

Game day pants (also available in black, red, and shorts) from Pennington and Bailes

Hot dog grill topper from Football Fanatics

The Coach's Shirt from Pennington and Bailes

Football purse from Football Fanatics

Game day skirt from Pennington and Bailes

Men's Bulova logo watch (other brands and women's styles available) from The Class Watch

For cheaper alternatives, visit Football Fanatics

Authentic full-size USC helmet from Football Fanatics

College desk box from Orvis

Plaid stadium blanket from The Stationery Studio

Locker room bedroom set from Football Fanatics

For the Clemson Tiger:
My grandfather played football (for Frank Howard), basketball, and baseball at Clemson and my grandmother was an IPTAY member and had season tickets to the football games for over 50 years, so I know a thing or two about Clemson. My grandmother even gave me issues of "Clemson World" my entire freshman year at USC, and several of my favorite Clemson fans reminded me (until my last semester of college) that it wasn't too late to transfer. Here is my ode to them:

Game day shorts (also available in khaki and long pants) from Pennington and Bailes

Women's classic button down from Pennington and Bailes

Ice cube tray from Football Fanatics

Monogrammed scarf in Clemson colors from Marley Lilly

iPhone cover from Game Time Geeks

Women's replica jersey from Football Fanatics

Campus word cloud framed print from Football Fanatics

BBQ steak brand from The Stationery Studio

Flat note cards from The Stationery Studio

Faux leather tote from McAuley's

For any college supporter:

• Autographed sports memorabilia is always a hit. Extra points if it is signed by the coach considered by fans to be "the great one" and/or the players of an extra-special season, preferably one that ended with a championship.
• Framed print depicting a campus landmark (such as a stadium, the library, or an academic building) or a special achievement for the university (a championship or some other milestone)

If your favorite fan isn't much for these types of gifts (or maybe already has them all!), you might want to consider giving a less-tangible present. Some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• A brick or other personalized item to be placed somewhere on campus (usually with the recipient's name and class year, and often their degree)
• A donation to the school's scholarship fund or a subdivision special to your recipient (such as a Greek or other extracurricular organization or their degree program). If you have lots of money burning a hole in your pocket (think $25k or more), you could even endow a scholarship in your recipient's name.
• A membership to the alumni association

Do you have your own favorite collegiate gifts? Please share them in the comments!

Go Gamecocks!