Top Ten Gift List!

The best gifts available at Amazon.com and other great online retailers! 

Top Ten Point-and-Shoot Cameras

Small point-and-shoot cameras typically offer incredible depth of field, which makes them surprisingly adept for landscape work. Consequently, I tend to prefer compact cameras that offer a wider lens. In this list of top ten point-and-shoot cameras, I try to offer a nice mix: some are great for wide angle shooting, others offer zoom capabilities that make them a great choice for telephoto shots. Make sure you know what type of shooting you plan to do before you pick one of these great cameras. Better yet - buy two!

Canon Powershot G10
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Canon Powershot G10
At a photography workshop I recently attended, an instructor was asked what point-and-shoot camera he carried when he didn't want to carry his DSLR. The Canon Powershot G10 was his camera of choice, and no wonder - at 14.7 megapixels, this camera sports a 28-140mm lens, 3" LCD, and a hot shoe for external flash. It also includes face detection and image stabilization. If you're a sophisticated shooter, you'll love this camera - but be prepared to have it set you back almost as much as an entry-level DSLR.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1
Don't like having to choose between wide-angle or zoom? Why not have it all? The Lumix DMC-ZS1 has a 25mm wide angle lens to capture those sweeping vistas. But why stop there? The 12x optical zoom takes you all the way to 300mm! With a 10 megapixel sensor and image stabilization thrown in for good measure, the Pani Lumix DMC-ZS1 may just be the perfect do-everything camera.
Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR
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Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR
We decided to include a Fujifilm camera on this list because of their reputation for high quality images at higher ISO. If you read the reviews on this camera, you'll see that achieving spectacular images may take a bit of coaxing on your part to override the camera's default settings (for example, you'll find several folks recommend shooting at 6 megapixel instead of the full 12). But once you start making the decisions, you'll be impressed with this camera's output. Nothing fantastic in terms of lens here (28-140mm), but for low-light shooting in a compact body, you should definitely take a look at the FinePix F200EXR.
Nikon Coolpix S630
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Nikon Coolpix S630
If you're looking for something a bit more compact, check out the Coolpix S630. With 12 megapixels and a 7x optical zoom (37-260mm), you won't get much on the wide end but this camera more than makes up for it in reach. The S630 also features a crazy 11fps burst rate. At less than $250 and with those gorgeous Nikon colors, you can't go wrong!
Olympus SP-590UZ
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Olympus SP-590UZ
I'm a real fan of Olympus cameras. They're not afraid to go there own way, creating technology today that the other manufacturers roll in to their cameras tomorrow. If you're willing to go with a slightly larger point-and-shoot, the SP-590UZ definitely deserves a look. Like the Lumix DMC-ZS1, this Oly combines great wide angle shooting (26mm) with breathtaking telephoto capabilities (676mm). That's right - this camera covers 26-676mm. The SP-590UZ includes image stabilization (you'll need it at 676mm!) and an electronic viewfinder. Definitely worth a look if you're not ready to step up to a DSLR but need the extra reach.
Olympus Stylus Tough-8000
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Olympus Stylus Tough-8000
True, the image quality from the Stylus Tough-8000 may not be what you'll get from some of the other cameras on our list. But if you're shooting in difficult situations - skiing, boating, fishing - you should take a look at this camera. It's not just water resistant - you can actually take shots under the water! With a 12 megapixel sensor and a fairly ho-hum lens (28-102mm), don't buy this camera if you're just planning to take a few shots of your kid's birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. No - you'll buy this camera if you need something you can beat up, drop, use in freezing weather, or take submerged shots of your buddy landing that 24" Brown trout.
Canon PowerShot SX1IS
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Canon PowerShot SX1IS
At $600, the PowerShot SX1lS costs almost as much as an entry-level DSLR. So why would you pay this much for a 10 megapixel point-and-shoot? Perhaps its the f2.8-5.7 aperture? Or the 28-560mm reach of the lens? How 'bout 4 frame per second burst mode? Hold on - are you sure this isn't a DSLR? Nope - it's got image stabilization that works in video mode, 1080p HD video at 30fps, and an articulating 2.8" LCD! Now you're talking! This camera may not be the best in low-light, but for outdoor work, give it a look!
Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1
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Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1
Like the PowerShot SX1LS, the Cybershot DSC-HX1 sports a 10 megapixel sensor and 28-560mm lens. Where this Sony outshines the Canon is in its burst mode - a whopping 10fps! It also sports a unique panoramic mode, high-def video (1080p at 30fps). Oh - and there's an HDMI port for direct connection to your high-def flat panel to view your handiwork straight out of the camera. A 3" tilting LCD completes the package. Unfortunately, if you need to capture in RAW you need to look at the SX1LS. But at less than $500 street, you should definitely give this camera a look.
Leica M8 Digital Rangefinder
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Leica M8 Digital Rangefinder
OK - let's be frank. You're not going to buy this 10.8 megapixel Leica because it's got all the bells and whistles. You're going to buy it because it's a Leica Rangefinder - and you want everyone who sees you shooting it to know that you found a spare $4Gs in your seat cushions to pick this baby up. Don't kid yourself - you need to know what you're doing to shoot one of these (which means we technically shouldn't have included it on this list of point-and-shoots). But hey - shooting a rangefinder is just flat out cool - how could we leave it out?
Panasonic DMC-LX3
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Panasonic DMC-LX3
So let's say you don't have a spare $4000 to spend on the Leica Rangefinder you really wanted. What's the next best thing for the rest of us? Wide and bright, the DMC-LX3K sports a 24mm Leica lens that opens up to a whopping f2. Plus, you get that sexy rangefinder look for only $600! You'll also find the DMC-LX3 provides more hand-holding, so if you like the rangefinder look but not the roll-your-own nature of a classic rangefinder, this just may be the camera for you.

We hope this list of point-and-shoot cameras proves that all the action is not in DSLR's these days - there's still plenty of good reasons to give the point-and-shoot a serious look. Packing portability and power into smaller bodies, these cameras definitely have their place. Happy shopping!

Posted by Tim Leonhardt 

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Top 10 Gifts for Mother's Day

As everyone knows, the best gift for mom is time. However, if you are short on time, or want to give a gift and time, here are some options to think about.

Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker
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Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker
If your mother is a coffee drinker, let her sit and enjoy a latte or cappuccino, soak in the sun, and have an overall relaxing day.
Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals Starter Kit -- (Medium)
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Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals Starter Kit -- (Medium)
Get the new and improved kit with everything you need for a flawless, 100 percent pure bareMinerals complexion in one complete customized kit designed especially for specific skin tones. Unless you know these types of things, make sure you get help ordering the right skin tone kit.
3/16" Harmony Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat in 68 and 74" Lengths Chocolate Brown
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3/16" Harmony Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat in 68 and 74" Lengths Chocolate Brown
Be a little careful getting your mother exercise stuff. But, if your mom is into Yoga, this would be an excellent gift.
Apple iPod nano 8 GB Pink (4th Generation)
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Apple iPod nano 8 GB Pink (4th Generation)
Almost everyone loves music. Bring mom into the digital age (if she isn't already there). She'll like it.
Metrokane Rabbit Wine Opener Gift Set, Silver
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Metrokane Rabbit Wine Opener Gift Set, Silver
For moms that often have company and like to drink wine, this handy (and good looking) tool will get the job done.
Metrokane V1 World's First Vacuum Decanter
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Metrokane V1 World's First Vacuum Decanter
Wine need never be wasted. A lovely decanter in lead free crystal, the Vacuum Wine Decanter is a modern marvel of style and convenience.
Magic Bullet Deluxe-22-pc Blender Set,1set
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Magic Bullet Deluxe-22-pc Blender Set,1set
I recently received one as a gift and I love it. Cleanup is simple and it makes a smoothy in 30 seconds.
Kindle 2: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device
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Kindle 2: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device
If your mother loves to read, the Amazon Kindle is a well made tool that makes getting and reading books very enjoyable.
TexereSilk White Robe for Women, 100% Silk, Hand Painted -- The Chrysanthemum
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TexereSilk White Robe for Women, 100% Silk, Hand Painted -- The Chrysanthemum
On Sunday, when mom wakes up and is ready for a cup of coffee, she can enjoy a special silk robe for comfort.

10

Go spend time with your mom.


Posted by Chad Coley 

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Top 10 TV on DVD Collections

Maintaining a collection of TV shows on DVD is a television staple these days. It gives relaxing, unwinding entertainment from a stressful day, and is something for people to enjoy together. Check out these great series that'll provide many hours of enjoyment.

Firefly - The Complete Series 1
Firefly - The Complete Series
Sci-fi, drama, comedy, and action... it's packed with a wonderful blend of genres. This engaging series will have you hooked from the first episode.
Arrested Development - The Complete Series 2
Arrested Development - The Complete Series
Its first year, Arrested Development won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series - because it's hilarious! This smart comedy will keep you reaching for the next episode.
The Sopranos - The Complete Series 3
The Sopranos - The Complete Series
Ever wonder what it's like in the working man's mafia? Look no further than the amazing Sopranos series - a detailed show of the daily life of mafia man Tony Soprano.
The Wire: The Complete Series 4
The Wire: The Complete Series
"Imagine a show that every critic on the planet loves. Imagine a show so deeply layered that it makes every other drama seem simple. Imagine a show where each character is equally important. Imagine a show that reinvented itself every season..." This review really captures The Wire, without ruining the surprises you have waiting when you see the show.
Deadwood: The Complete Series 5
Deadwood: The Complete Series
The "Old Timey" drama that is Deadwood is one of the most acclaimed series HBO has hosted. Engaging and well-scripted, this series will provide many hours of entertainment.
Seinfeld - The Complete Series 6
Seinfeld - The Complete Series
There are two kinds of people - those who like Seinfeld, and those who love it. The Seinfeld Complete Series is perfect for both! Tons of deleted scenes and even some alternate endings, you can't miss these.
Friends - The Complete Series Collection 7
Friends - The Complete Series Collection
Trendy and funny, Friends never gets old! The lovable group of characters are sure to entertain.
Gilmore Girls - The Complete Series Collection 8
Gilmore Girls - The Complete Series Collection
Gilmore Girls has a quick wit and never a dry moment. The series was an instant hit!
Frasier - Complete Series 9
Frasier - Complete Series
Sometimes called the "smartest show on television," Frasier has the well-spoken Kelsey Grammar in a perfect role. With an all-star cast, Frasier is a great show to have on hand.
Spaced: The Complete Series 10
Spaced: The Complete Series
This top-rated British series stars the hilarious Simon Pegg (from Shaun of the Dead). It's an excellent choice for something new to watch that you won't be catching on TV anytime soon.

Any one of these would make a very kind, entertaining gift. Make sure to choose one that matches the taste of your intended recipient (or just pick Arrested Development if you're not sure!)

Posted by Craig Dugas 

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Top Ten Movie Snacks

Going to the movies is great. However, as we all know, they stick it to you with the concession costs. Buying nachos, popcorn, candy and soft pretzels can make a trip to the movies an expensive event. Save some serious cash by purchasing your snacks ahead of time in bulk packages that will last you through the next couple Batman flicks.

Nestles Raisinets On The Go (Pack of 18) 1
Nestles Raisinets On The Go (Pack of 18)
A tasty classic for around $16.
LesserEvil Classic Kettle Corn (Pack of 24) 2
LesserEvil Classic Kettle Corn (Pack of 24)
Pre-packaged and more convenient than theater popcorn, for around $20.
Popchips Variety Potato Chips (Pack of 36) 3
Popchips Variety Potato Chips (Pack of 36)
36 bags of popchips will last a long time for around $30.
Sour Patch Peach (Pack of 48) 4
Sour Patch Peach (Pack of 48)
Satisfy your "sour tooth" with Sour Patch peach flavor - for around $24.
Haribo Gummi Candy (Pack of 12) 5
Haribo Gummi Candy (Pack of 12)
It's tough to beat gummy candy :) Available for around $12.
100 Calorie Packs, Chips Ahoy! Cookies (Pack of 6) 6
100 Calorie Packs, Chips Ahoy! Cookies (Pack of 6)
A fraction of the calories you'd get with any option at the theater, grab a box of cookies for around $18.
LesserEvil Krinkle Sticks Classic SeaSalt (Pack of 24) 7
LesserEvil Krinkle Sticks Classic SeaSalt (Pack of 24)
Try this tasty alternative to popcorn - krinkle sticks (in classic sea salt flavor). A 24 pack is around $27.
YummyEarth Organic Lollipops 150-Count Container 8
YummyEarth Organic Lollipops 150-Count Container
This treat will last you a while, and the container is packed with 150 pops! Available for around $16.
Toblerone Chocolate with Honey and Almond Nougat (Pack of 12) 9
Toblerone Chocolate with Honey and Almond Nougat (Pack of 12)
Nothing says smooth, tasty chocolate than a Toblerone. Bring this elegant treat to the theater with you for around $15 (for a dozen).
Nestles Snocaps On The Go (Pack of 18) 10
Nestles Snocaps On The Go (Pack of 18)
A classic movie-theater treat, but at a fraction of the cost. Get 18 packs of Snocaps for around $16.

Purchasing your snacks ahead of time is sure to save when it comes to theater costs. Don't forget to bring your own water or other beverage and try to hit the matinee to save even more!

Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 Games for the XBox 360

Since valentines day is coming up, what better gift to get your man then a new Xbox game. Oh wait...the gift is for yourself? Perfect. Well, the games below can be summed up in a few words: sports, mature, violence, and downright intensity.

Xbox 360 Rock Band 2 Special Edition 1
Xbox 360 Rock Band 2 Special Edition
If you think you're a rock star and got your rock moves, prove it. Rock Band 2 is a great party game and even works for families (if the kids aren't too young). Enjoy rockin out on the drums, jammin on the guitars, and belting it out on the mic!
Fallout 3 2
Fallout 3
So it finally happened. The world is down to a few survivors who brave radiation and mutants after nuclear fallout. With amazing graphics, this game sucks you in. Again, not a kid game as there are several adult situations.
FIFA Soccer 09 3
FIFA Soccer 09
FIFA 09 by EA Sports is a great sports game. Many bells and whistles have been added such as live updates to keep your player's stats modeling real life, online collaboration with friends, and custom tactics to develop yourself. Get it now for $56.99.
Gears of War 2 4
Gears of War 2
Chainsaw gun...enough said. Well, perhaps not enough said. Excellent graphics, gripping story, a great co-op mode, great gameplay.
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution 5
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution
Civilization has always been a game with a core following. The latest iteration brought the game to consoles everywhere and the addiction continues. Check out the demo, get hooked, then buy the game. Or, just jump to step three and get the game for $36.99.
Fable II 6
Fable II
Fable 2 is the much anticipated sequel which has sold like wildfire. An epic story that picks up 500 years after the first game, explore and play as you please with an ample amount of freedom. Each choice you make changes the outcome of the game.
Left 4 Dead 7
Left 4 Dead
Always wanted to be a zombie? Well now you can. Battle your way through humans, or be human and fight your way past zombies in four massive campaigns. Multiplayer supports up to 8 also.
NHL 09 8
NHL 09
Feeling rough and tumble? It must be time to check people into the boards. So grab your hockey stick, some skates, and an xbox controller and get in the game for $56.99.
Dead Space 9
Dead Space
Aliens, blood, and telekinesis. What's not to like? Get locked into this action game and story. $56.99.
Grand Theft Auto IV 10
Grand Theft Auto IV
What list would be complete without GTA? As with many other games out now, this one isn't appropriate for children. But how many games can you car jack someone, hit a gentleman's club, go bowling, and participate in several other activities? $49.79 for hours of "things you shouldn't do."

 

Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 Gifts for the Fitness Buff

You really can't go wrong with a fitness gift. Even if your buddy isn't a muscle head, fact is we could all do with a bit more exercise. So pick up a gift off this list as a not-so-subtle hint!

Polar F11M Heart Rate Monitor 1
Polar F11M Heart Rate Monitor
There's more to be said for a heart rate monitor than just tracking your optimal heart rate so you're working out 'in the zone.' Quite frankly, I'm a little sick of hitting spin class only to be the odd man out without a heart rate monitor. Do your friend (and her fellow classmates) a favor and hook her up with the great Polar F11 rate monitor!
How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy! 2
How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy!
Paul Chek has it going on when you talk about the complete picture of health. From workouts to stretching, eating to sleeping, Chek has recommendations that will keep you looking and feeling your best. Highly recommended.
CamelBak BPA-Free Better Water Bottle with Bite Valve,Green,1 Liter 3
CamelBak BPA-Free Better Water Bottle with Bite Valve,Green,1 Liter
If you're working out, you gotta hydrate. This sippy CamelBak bottle has the advantage of not requiring you to remove a lid to take a swig. Not a bad thing during the middle of an intensive circuit workout. And it's BPA-free!
Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Single Dumbbell 4
Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Single Dumbbell
If your gift buddy works out at home, this is the gift for him. We can't all afford a huge home gym - the Boxflex SelectTech dumbbell is space efficient but scales all the way from 10 to 90 lbs. Great idea!
Bosu Balance Trainer Home Version 5
Bosu Balance Trainer Home Version
These things are awesome. Add a whole new dimension to your workout by throwing a Bosu into the mix. Regular workouts get amped up when you're balancing on a Bosu during your regular lift movements.
Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit (65cm) 6
Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit (65cm)
If you've read Paul Chek's book (see #2), you know how critical stretching is to your overall health. A balance ball is an inexpensive add-on to your regular routine that will help you stretch in ways you never realized were possible.
Sherpani Meta - 08 Cornsilk Gym Bags 7
Sherpani Meta - 08 Cornsilk Gym Bags
My good friend (who's also a personal trainer) recommended this bag as one of her favs. Gals have all kinds of stuff to carry to the gym; this bag has room for all of it.
C9 by Champion Grey/White Loose Fit Pant - M 8
C9 by Champion
Champion's C9 series of workout clothing is reasonable but high quality. Look sharp and be thrifty. I like it.
Pain Free: A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain 9
Pain Free: A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain
When I added Paul Chek's book to this list, my friend insisted on including Egoscue's Pain Free, as well. She swears by it. She's in much better shape than I am (she just finished the Twin Cities Marathon a few months ago), so I'll defer to her expertise!
Medi-Dyne ProStretch Unilateral Stretching System 10
Medi-Dyne ProStretch Unilateral Stretching System
If you do a lot of biking or elliptical work, you need to make sure you keep your calves stretched and loose. This simple looking device does a great job of doing just that. My gym has a few of these lying around - I love giving my calves a good stretch before and after an intense workout. Nice!

There you go - ten top gifts for the fitness buff. Whether your friend is just getting started on her journey to fitness or she's an old hand who knows the drill, you can't go wrong picking up one of the items listed here.

Happy shopping!

Filed under  //   Fitness   gifts   giving   health   personal training   workout  
Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 Gifts for the Yoga-Lover

Yoga has become hugely popular; there's probably someone in your social sphere who is really into it. The next time you need to buy a gift for your favorite Yoga-lover, check out this list of great gifts!

Harmony Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat 1
Harmony Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat
Made in the USA of open cell, natural dry rubber, this mat is 3/16" thick. Go for a natural alternative to PVC! Available in 68" or 74" lengths.
Yogitoes Skidless Premium Yoga Towel 2
Yogitoes Skidless Premium Yoga Towel
Add a super-absorbent Yoga towel to your practice to absorb perspiration and prevent slipping. This lightweight towel includes silicone nubs on one side to grip your Yoga mat to prevent movement.
Barefoot Yoga Mysore Practice Yoga Rug 3
Barefoot Yoga Mysore Practice Yoga Rug
If you prefer something a little more 'authentic' than a hi-tech Yoga towel (see #2), check out this Yoga rug. Decorative and made of tightly woven cotton, this rug rests nicely over any Yoga mat and most floor surfaces. Use it to add extra cushion for sitting postures and better traction and stability for standing postures. It absorbs perspiration to keep you from slipping. Nice!
Manduka Mat Sak 4
Manduka Mat Sak
I work with a gal who carries one of these bags. Super-hip and highly functional, this bag is made of a durable cotton canvas material with recycled PET mesh detailing. Two zippered compartments provide protective carrying space for a Yoga mat, towel, strap, and personal items. Did I mention that it looks fantastic? Very cool.
Gaiam Cork Block/Hemp Strap Combo 5
Gaiam Cork Block/Hemp Strap Combo
No foam block for you! Increase your eco-cred with this Yoga block/strap combo. The all-natural cork block will help you refine your alignment in certain standing and sitting poses. Use the hemp strap to improve your stretches. Good stuff.
Toezies - The Sock for Pilates, Yoga and Lounging Around 6
Toezies - The Sock for Pilates, Yoga and Lounging Around
What really puts these socks over the top is the non-skid surface on the bottom. Hygienic, free toes, and no-slipping - what could be better?
Chemical Free Yoga Mat Wash 7
Chemical Free Yoga Mat Wash
Ban the funk without the harsh chemicals. This organic mat wash from Vermont Soap will keep your Yoga-lover's mat fresh and clean. She can use it on her Yoga blocks, balance balls, cushions and straps, as well!
Yoga Zone: Music for Meditation 8
Yoga Zone: Music for Meditation
If your Yoga-lover prefers her music a little more upbeat while she's practicing, hook her up with this CD from Yoga Zone.
Ultimate Stretch Yoga Workout 9
Ultimate Stretch Yoga Workout
Does your Yoga-lover sometimes practice at home instead of a Yoga studio? If so, gift this DVD from celebrated yoga teachers Ravi Singh & Ana Brett. This Kundalini Yoga DVD offers a complete workout in just 60 minutes.
Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga... 10
Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga...
When asked to pick one book she'd add to a list of Top 10 Gifts for the Yoga Lover, one of our favorite Yoga instructors here in town selected this book - Light on Yoga. It is the definitive guide to the philosophy and practice of Yoga.

So there you have it. Even if you're not into Yoga personally, your favorite Yoga-lover will be impressed when you give one of the items off this list. There's nothing better than giving a thoughtful gift.

Happy shopping!

Filed under  //   Bags   Blocks   gifts   giving   Mats   Yoga  
Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 42" LCD TVs (HD of course)

Well, I must admit that I'm biased to LCD TVs over Plasma. The reasoning could go well beyond a gift recommendation, so I won't dive into it. Perhaps the best bit of news is that nearly all these TVs are on sale with decent size discounts. The newest deal seems to be the 120Hz LCDs. 120Hz promises a clearer picture with less pixelation. I have listed some that are not 120Hz since they are well priced and still solid. Oh, whatever you get, make sure it's 1080p.

LG 42LG70 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 1
LG 42LG70 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Normally $1,699, this clean-looking, highly-reviewed set is marked down to $1,277.
Sharp Aquos LC42D85U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 2
Sharp Aquos LC42D85U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
The AQUOS models for Sharp are doing extremely well in the market. Several reviews suggest their customer service is better than most and people enjoy the quality of the AQUOS line. Normally $1,499, on sale for an incredible $1,086.
Toshiba REGZA Cinema Series 42XV545U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 3
Toshiba REGZA Cinema Series 42XV545U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Once again, a quality 120Hz set that is normally $1,499 is on sale for $1,208.
Sony Bravia V-Series KDL-42V4100 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 4
Sony Bravia V-Series KDL-42V4100 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Normally $1,499, the KDL is on sale for $1,049 making this TV one of the better deals out there.
Philips 42PFL7403D/27 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 5
Philips 42PFL7403D/27 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Philips makes the top five with this TV. Normally $1,299, get this TV for $1,077 now.
LG 42LBX - 42" LCD TV - 120Hz - widescreen - 1080p (FullHD) - HDTV 1080p - glossy black 6
LG 42LBX - 42" LCD TV - 120Hz - widescreen - 1080p (FullHD) - HDTV 1080p - glossy black
For some crazy reason, this TV is marked at 50%! Normally $2,099, you can snag up this set right now for $999!
Toshiba REGZA 42RV530U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 7
Toshiba REGZA 42RV530U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Another nice Toshiba, this one is normally $1,199 but available now for $982. Keep in mind, this is not a 120Hz set.
Sharp Aquos LC42D64U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV 8
Sharp Aquos LC42D64U 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV
Although not a 120Hz TV, the AQUOS line has had great reviews. Last week, this set was significantly cheaper. Now, however, it is listed at $1,844.
LG 42LG60 42-Inch 1080p 120hz LCD HDTV, Gloss Piano Black with Scarlet Red 9
LG 42LG60 42-Inch 1080p 120hz LCD HDTV, Gloss Piano Black with Scarlet Red
For some reason, this set has two pricing breaks. Normally listed for $1,999, the first price break is to $1,699. But right now, this set is listed $1,299!
Toshiba REGZA 42XV540U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV 10
Toshiba REGZA 42XV540U 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV
Normally $1,399 but now listed at $1,199

Well, that's the list. There are others, but I tried to keep in and around the $1000 mark for TVs. If you are into further research, you can check on the Contrast and try to get that number up as much as possible. For example, 25,000 : 1.

Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 Gifts for Your Cat

Finding fun, new things for your cat is a tough job. I've put together a dynamite list of toys, accessories, furniture and even a book that should definitely please Mr. or Mrs. Whiskers.

Kong Cats with an Attitude  Squirrel Cat Toy 1
Kong Cats with an Attitude Squirrel Cat Toy
For just a few dollars you can pick up some catnip loaded toys for your feline friend. This is a classic kitty stocking stuffer or pick up a bunch to make a great gift. They're fun and nice to have around for playtime.
Feline Greenies Oven Roasted Chicken 2
Feline Greenies Oven Roasted Chicken
You know as well as I do that cats LOVE treats. They somehow sense that when you give them a single few pieces of food, it's special. These treats are not only tasty chicken flavor, but help reduce plaque, tartar and get rid of that pesky bad breath. These go great with cat toys as stocking stuffers!
Petsafe Small Heated Pet Pad 3
Petsafe Small Heated Pet Pad
Cats are often found curled up lying in a sunny spot because they love the warmth. Get your cat this heated pet pad for under $50 and bring them warm times all year round. As an added bonus, the pet pad doesn't use much electricity (just a fraction of an average lightbulb).
Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul 4
Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul
This is a gift for you and your cat. This highly rated book is full of feline affection, mystery and charm and just might bring you one step closer to the kitty in your life.
Self-Cleaning Litter Box 5
Self-Cleaning Litter Box
The name might be a bit deceiving, as this box isn't one of those risky electric self-cleaning boxes. It actually makes cleaning a breeze, just tip it on its side and pull out the nifty handle. Done & done. I've been using this model that costs about $30 for some time now and couldn't be happier.
Cat Buffet with 3 Bowls 6
Cat Buffet with 3 Bowls
This elegant piece is sure to please your cat and your style. Get rid of those old cat dishes and replace them with a new, colorful "cat buffet." The 3-color set is available for $40.
Golf Balls 7
Golf Balls
No, you haven't drifted into our Top Ten Gifts for Golfer list, these golf balls are meant for the cat! Golf balls have proven to be a huge hit with the kitties as they bat them around freely and love chasing them. For under $10, you can't go wrong.
Red Laser Pointer 8
Red Laser Pointer
This cat essential is not only very well priced (at under $10), it's hours of fun. Cats love chasing the little red point around the floor and even up walls. I've never met the cat that doesn't enjoy a good laser pointer game.
FURminator deShedding Tool 9
FURminator deShedding Tool
DeShedding your cat with any other tool would be a crime. The FURminator is a safe way to quickly remove a ton of loose hair on your cat that normally just fall on your furniture, clothing and floors. Cats love the grooming feel that comes along with it, and the healthier coat makes this a no-brainer. It runs about $15.
Marmalade Pet Sweet Lounge Cat Bed 10
Marmalade Pet Sweet Lounge Cat Bed
If you want to pamper your kitty this year, pick up this sweet lounge bed. It not only looks pretty cool, but is constructed to fit the feline form to perfection. This high quality lounge bed goes for $140, and is definitely a stylish addition to your living area.

Now you can put together the perfect gift set for your cat with treats, toys and more. Be forewarned, your kitty will be purring for days after receiving gifts from this list.

Happy Shopping!

Posted by Top Ten 

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Top 10 Geeky Gifts

Giving a geeky gift can be difficult, even for other geeks! I've found and tested a bunch of stuff and this list contains all the winners.

Geek Monthly 1
Geek Monthly
For $20, you can bring geeky goodness to someone's life every month. From connecting with celeb geeks to reviewing the latest tech toys, this new magazine is a hit.
Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder 2
Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder
The Flip video camcorder is one of the fastest spreading devices today. It's way higher quality than your cell video camera, and it's so easy to use. Check out celebrity sightings using the Flip camcorder on their site.
ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income 3
ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income
Most geeks run a blog, but not many have actually read some pro advice on how to maintain a healthy blog. Send some helpful tips along in this book for about $12.
Memorex 16X DVD-R 100-Pack 4
Memorex 16X DVD-R 100-Pack
Geeks got a lotta stuff on the computer, and storage runs out fast. Help out with a huge pack of burnable DVDs that can be used to backup data, movies, photos and music. A 100 pack is roughly $20.
Just a Geek by Wil Weaton 5
Just a Geek by Wil Weaton
Wil Weaton (Star Trek's Wesley Crusher) has gone from movie star to Internet geek star. Give his book as a good read to that special geek that loves to read.
Sennheiser PX 100 Collapsible Headphones 6
Sennheiser PX 100 Collapsible Headphones
The open, lightweight yet sturdy design of these headphones make them top notch. They're affordable and can literally be worn for hours without dealing with the trouble that earbuds or large cans bring. Pick up a pair for under $30.
Microsoft SideWinder Gaming Mouse 7
Microsoft SideWinder Gaming Mouse
There's not many devices out there as cool as a badass mouse. This mouse, although great for gaming is great for anytime use as well. It has removable metric-based weights to match the desires of the geekiest of geeks. Plus, it's going for $36.99 right now!
Livescribe 1GB Pulse Smartpen 8
Livescribe 1GB Pulse Smartpen
This might just be the best geeky educational tool of the decade. Smart pens digitally record as you write, allowing you to reference your material easily on the computer afterwards. They even have a built-in microphone. At $150, you're going to get your money's worth with this gift.
Rapid Beverage Chiller 9
Rapid Beverage Chiller
Let room temperature beverages be a thing of the past with this ultra-fast beverage cooler. It'll chill a can in just 60 seconds! It's great for bottles up to wine size as well. Perfect for the home and office.
Kingston DataTraveler 16GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive 10
Kingston DataTraveler 16GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive
When you're talking about mass storage, geeks tend to drool a lot. This huge USB flash drive gives 16GB of fast storage. This small drive is one of the most useful gifts you can give to a needy geek. It's going for $24 right now.

Whether your geek likes tech toys, reading or plain old fashioned chilled beverages, there's definitely a match for your geek here.

Happy Shopping!

Posted by Top Ten 

Comments [3]