How to Simplify Holiday Gift Giving

(BPT) - Overwhelmed by your holiday shopping list and short on time? Not to worry - here are a few tips to cut costs, stay organized and still buy presents that your friends and family will love.

1. Stick to a budget. Arrive at the dollar amount at which you feel comfortable spending and stick with it. Then, decide on cost ranges that you would pay for those on your list. Setting limits on how much you can spend per person will streamline the overall process of holiday shopping.

2. Use a gift selection website that does the picking for you. The Timex Gift Finder website, for example, lets you discover which watch styles your loved ones will crave most after you answer five short questions about their personalities. You'll also receive a coupon for $10 off two of these watches at Walmart or Target. To try the Timex Gift Finder yourself, visit www.TimexGiftFinder.com.

3. Be prepared with back-up gift cards. What if your cousin-in-law shows up to your shindig with a cute makeup set for you, but you have nothing for her? Don't let that happen by keeping a stock of extra gift cards. Walmart and Target offer a wide variety of them, so you don't have to drive from store to store.

4. Bake simple homemade treats. It's not the cost of the present that counts; it's the thought that matters.

Show off your culinary skills with some heart-healthy oatmeal cookies or your delectable apple pie. If you need creative ideas, search Pinterest for mouth-watering inspiration.

 5. Give to a worthwhile cause. Make a donation in the name of that friend or family member who has everything. Think about the recipient's philanthropic interests rather than just contributing to a cause that you support. Write a thoughtful card explaining what inspired you to choose this gift for an added touch.

Follow these easy tips and you'll be sure to experience stress-free holiday gifting.

Gifting Trends for the Holidays

(BPT) - Whether you began your holiday shopping in July or will wait until the last minute, whether you enjoy the festive fun of shopping in a crowded store or the solitude of shopping online, this year's gifting trends aren't about spending a lot of money. Instead, it's a matter of being clever and creative with some practical pizazz.

• Accessorize: There's no doubt about it, technology is always evolving. Your list is filled with people who already have all the latest in gadgetry. Tech accessories are great gifts and easy on the budget.

• Compliment her smart phone with novelty ear buds, a waterproof cover or an armband case for exercising. Give him a wireless keyboard, a portable speaker or a stand for his tablet.

* Serve it up: Instead of exchanging gifts, treat close friends and family to a merry night of food and drink on the house - yours that is. The memories of this joyous evening will last much longer than the gift cards you gave out last year.

* Something for everyone: Holiday shoppers are looking to find high quality gifts that can be given to many recipients such as the school principal, the contractor or the hair stylist. Why not give Hickory Farms diverse gift baskets? Gift baskets are the perfect gift for the women and the men on your shopping list this year.-Satisfy the outdoor enthusiast on your list with the Pack and Go Picnic Tote, which is insulated and includes savory and classic goodies. The Family Favorites collection has a little something for everyone from summer sausage to gourmet cheeses, crackers and mints. Surprise the wine connoisseur of the family with a Hickory Holiday Reserve basket with all the trimmings. Wine gifts are available for purchase online or via phone at 800-222-GIFT only. Visit hickoryfarms.com or visit kiosks and store fronts nationwide.

* Multi-purpose gifts: Who doesn't want to give a gift that is appreciated twice? Gifts that have multiple purposes are a big trend this year. The Hickory Farms Tastes of the Trade Tool Bag will make any handyman's day, stuffed full of tasty treats in lieu of tools. After the edibles are gone, maybe Dad will be inspired to use the tool bag and finish that project he started in the spring. Personalize a serving platter for Mom at your local pottery store and she can use it for special occasions throughout the year.

Take advantage of this year's gifting trends and you'll end up with thoughtful and practical gifts ... unlike that partridge in a pear tree.

Best Picks for your Holiday Electronics Gift List

(BPT) - Americans love their electronics: tablet computers, smart phones, digital cameras, HDTVs, e-book readers, MP3 players, and hearing aids.

That's right - new, modern, sleek, life-altering hearing aids. As contoured and futuristic as the most highly styled electronic device - or -so discreet that they're virtually invisible - today's hearing aids are the high-tech "anti-aging" tool that can help keep life-loving Gen-Xers and baby boomers socially, cognitively and physically active.

For more than 34 million Americans, hearing loss is part of life. Most frequently, it results from repeat exposure to loud noises - like at concerts, nightclubs, sporting events, crowded restaurants, loud workplaces and so on.

In many ways, hearing loss is the unintended by-product of life fully lived - that is, before we knew better about how to protect our hearing in such noisy environments. But when ignored and left unaddressed, hearing loss robs from life. It isolates. It debilitates. And it diminishes quality of life. It even takes a toll on fiscal wellbeing by cutting into earnings potential. And perhaps most notable during the holidays, unaddressed hearing loss creates barriers and unnecessarily strains even the best of relationships.

But listen up: It doesn't have to. And it shouldn't.

The overwhelming majority of people with hearing loss can benefit from hearing aids. And eight out of 10 hearing aid users say they are satisfied with the changes that have occurred in their lives specifically due to their hearing aids - from how they feel about themselves to the positive effects hearing aids have on their social and work lives.

High-performance technology and style have merged with durability and ease-of-use when it comes to today's hearing aids. The options are so varied that there is an attractive solution for just about anyone.

Today's high-tech hearing aids can be as discreet or as visible as you like. Designers are offering styles that appeal to the fashion conscious, the trendsetter, the party-goer, the intellect, the cautious grandmother, the romantic, the weekend warrior, or the guy just tired of arguing with his wife and kids about the volume on the TV.

Simply, today's hearing aids transcend old-world notions about hiding a condition as common as hearing loss. Whether they sit discreetly inside your ear canal, or wrap aesthetically around the contour of your outer ear like the latest fashion accessory, today's high-performance hearing aids amplify life.

They unabashedly send the message: "I'm too young and full of life to stop doing the things I love best."

If you think someone you love is struggling with unaddressed hearing loss, ask yourself these

questions:

* Do they seem to have trouble hearing on the telephone?

* Is it more difficult for them to follow conversations when two or more people are talking at the same time?

* Do they keep turning up the TV or radio?

* Do they sometimes miss a telephone ring or doorbell?

* Do they seem more irritated or tired at big family or social gatherings?

If the answer to some or all of these questions is yes, it's time to make an appointment with a hearing health professional. Go to the appointment with your loved one. Your companionship may be just the encouragement they need to take charge of their hearing loss and regain the reins on life. It also may get you thinking about your own hearing health needs.

So go ahead. Do something radical this holiday season. Amplify someone's life. Buy them a hearing aid. And just maybe, when you celebrate the New Year together, you'll be rewarded when they tell you that they can hear the sound of ice-cubes jingling inside a glass again, or the sound of singing birds in the early morning - and what beautiful sounds they are. For more information on hearing loss, visit

www.betterhearing.org.

Holiday Gift Ideas for the DIYer

(BPT) - The holidays are here and for the do-it-yourselfer who always has a list of "to-do" projects to

tackle, a new tool makes a great gift. From the weekend warrior to automotive enthusiast, an addition

to the tool box is certain to bring a smile to their face.

Here are some ideas from Craftsman to get you started finding the perfect gift for the DIYer on your

list:

* Stocking stuffer - Craftsman Cap Wrench Bottle Opener

A tool box isn't complete without a bottle cap opener for use during the rewarding and relaxing time at

the end of the workday. Give your loved one's stocking a little extra weight with this tool that looks like

a traditional wrench with a fun twist. The patented fulcrum design opens a variety of bottle tops.

Personalize it by having a name engraved on the handle.

* Everyday DIYer - 65-in-1 Universal Wrench-

This innovative wrench empowers users to work on 16 different fastener sizes including inch and

metric. The universal design also gives it access to six different types of fasteners -2 pt., 4 pt., 6 pt., 12

pt., Spline and External Torx. No matter what size or shape nut or bolt you encounter, this tool has got

you covered, lightening up your tool belt.

* Auto enthusiast - Universal 19-pc. Max Axess Socket and Ratchet Set

For those who spend a lot of time under the hood, consider this tool set. It features a unique pass-thru

design built to take on any length screw and rods, without the need for deep sockets. The universal

tooth design grips six different types of fasteners, so no matter what type of nut you encounter, you'll

be covered. The set contains a total of 19 pieces, including eight metric socket sizes, eight standard

socket sizes and a 3/8-inch ratchet.

* Weekend warrior: Bolt-On Tool System

We all know that weekend projects tend to require more than one type of tool. This modular power tool

system saves you space, time and money with nine interchangeable attachments that all connect to one

tool base. With its ability to transform from a drill to a router to a jigaw and more in mere seconds, it's

perfect to take on nearly any project. A starter kit comes with the tool base, 20-volt battery, charger and

drill/driver attachment. Eight additional attachments can be purchased separately, allowing your loved

one to expand their power tool collection quickly and reasonably.

* Heavy-duty DIYer: C3 XCP Heavy-Duty Drill

This heavy-duty drill can tackle the toughest of jobs and is the most powerful drill in its class. It is

powered by a new extreme core performance (XCP) lithium-ion battery pack that provides 35 percent

more run time. Features Extreme Weather Performance, which allows for easier tool start up when the

temperature drops, so no matter what the season, your DIY die-hard can be working.

These gifts are sure to be "Guys Favorites Guaranteed." If they don't love their new tool, the Sears

return policy has you covered. For more information on top holiday gifts, visit www.craftsman.com

The Holiday Gift that Keeps on Giving: Opt to Adopt a Pet, Save a Life

(BPT) - It's not surprising that pets are often a popular holiday gift. The darling image of the bow-

bedecked puppy or the kitten-stuffed stocking is a holiday classic, but gift givers should make sure that

an animal's charm doesn't overshadow other important factors to consider when making a pet purchase,

including where the pets came from and who the recipient is.

Each year more than 4 million homeless pets are killed as a result of overpopulation, but families who adopt from animal shelters or rescue groups can help preserve these lives and support the growing trend of socially responsible holiday shopping. Best Friends Animal Society encourages families this holiday season to give the precious gift of life by adopting homeless pets rather than buying from breeders, pet stores or online retailers.

Also, resist the urge to surprise a friend or family member with a living gift. Choosing the right pet is

an extremely personal decision, one that should be made carefully by the adults who will be caring for the animal for its 15- to 20-year lifetime. Instead, offer an adoption gift certificate paired with a basket of pet care items or stuffed animal for the holiday itself, and then let the person or family choose the actual pet that feels right to them.

Once you've decided to adopt, keep in mind that welcoming a pet into your life is a big decision and

requires important preparation. Best Friends offers tips and advice to help make a smooth transition at home:

* Determine roles and responsibilities - Before bringing home a new pet, discuss what roles and

responsibilities each family member will take on. Who will be in charge of feeding, walks, changing

the litter box and taking your pet for regular visits to the vet? Giving each family member a specific

task will help everyone feel involved, especially young children.

* Prep the house - Adding a pet to the house means adding new items to your shopping lists. For dogs, the basics are a collar and leash, chew toys, a kennel and dog bed. Cats need a litter box and litter, a scratching post and a carrying crate for transportation. Also don't forget food and toys.

* Have your pet spayed/neutered - Spaying or neutering is one of the greatest gifts you can provide

your pet and community. It not only helps control the overabundance of pets, but can also help prevent medical and behavioral problems from developing. Most shelters include this with the adoption package or can recommend a local veterinarian in your area, so check with the staff at the shelter before you leave.

* Research community rules and resources - Do a little research on what identification (tags,

microchips, etc.) you might need for your pet. Scout out the local dog parks and runs for future outdoor fun, and make sure you know where emergency vet clinics or animal hospitals are located.

* Set limits - Having pre-determined rules will create consistency in training and help make the home a pleasant environment for you and your pet. Will your pet be allowed to snuggle with you in bed or curl up with you on your furniture? Will treats be limited to one a day? It's important to discuss these

questions as a family before your new family member arrives.

An estimated 17 million people will be adding pets to their families this year, so this season, help bring some holiday cheer to a homeless pet by adopting your newest companion.

5 Perfect Presents Make Gift-Giving Easy

(BPT) - The holidays are a special time of year to show the important people in our lives how much we

appreciate them and that means gift-giving. If picking out holiday gifts is painless for you, you're one

of the lucky ones. More often than not, people have a tough time finding the perfect present for friends

and family, particularly if you have someone on your list who already seems to have everything. So, if

 you're stumped as to what to get that impossible-to-buy-for person, consider these five gift ideas that

are sure to brighten anyone's holiday:

1. Gift your services

Rather than giving a tangible item, give your services; it's the perfectly practical gift for the person on

your list who may be short on space, lacking financial resources or would just appreciate a little extra

help. Love kids? Offer free child care so the recipient can enjoy an evening out on the town without

worrying about the little ones. Have a knack for cooking? Gift a weeknight meal that you deliver to the

recipient's doorstep. Known for your organization? Offer your skills to help the recipient organize a

closet, office or other cluttered space.

2. Make a miracle happen

Positively impacting others by giving a charitable gift in the recipient's name embraces the true

meaning of the season. The new Give Miracles Holiday Catalog from national nonprofit Children's

Miracle Network Hospitals features in-demand pediatric items and services that local children's

hospitals need — anything from comforting teddy bears ($30) to a case of extra-small preemie

diapers smaller than the palm of your hand ($170)! For high-impact gifts like a physical therapy toy kit

($375) or a pediatric wheelchair ($970), funds can be collectively raised by numerous gift-givers. This

option is ideal for extended families looking to do something more meaningful than the typical gift

exchange.

And to make that "do-good" feeling for the recipient last long after the holidays are over, Give Miracles

donors receive ongoing communication from Children's Miracle Network Hospitals throughout the

year about how their gift is making an impact at their local hospital. Browse the gift catalog at

www.GiveMiracles.org.

3. Purchase a membership to a monthly club

Rather than wasting money on a new gadget that will quickly be forgotten, give a gift that benefits the

recipient all year long. Monthly clubs provide fun deliveries to a loved one's address, an ongoing

reminder of your generosity. Monthly gift clubs are available for just about anything, from wine and

beer, to jams and cheese, to bacon and fruit.

4. Give a gift that grows

Potted plants are a fantastic gift idea because they represent how your love continues to grow for that

special someone. Plus, plants are a wonderful addition to interior decor and help clean the air. With so

many houseplants readily available, you're sure to find the perfect one for the person who has

everything. Does he gravitate toward decor with vivid color? Choose a flowering plant that provides

delightful blooms. Does she love Asian culture? How about gifting a bonsai tree or a bamboo plant?

5. Provide an experience

Often, it's not what's in the box, it's the memory that stays with so many people after the holidays have

passed. That's why giving a special experience can make a truly meaningful gift. Think about what

really interests the recipient or an activity they've had on their bucket list. Perhaps it's a hot air balloon

Holiday Technology Gifts for the Whole Family

(BPT) - Buying holiday gifts can be a fun and easy experience when you go to the right place. No

matter the age of the person you're buying for, there is one kind of product that is perfect for everyone:

technology. Whether it's the latest tablet or e-reader, new headphones, or a cool tech accessory for a

stocking stuffer, there is something for everyone.

Digital lifestyle expert and TV personality, Mario Armstrong, suggests making the shopping experience

easy by finding one place shoppers can turn to for all their technology gift shopping needs. "Staples is a

great place for tech gifts," says Armstrong. -"They offer customers a great in-store experience where

shoppers can test products to ensure they are getting the best gift. Also, if anyone is confused or needs a

little guidance, the Staples EasyTech Associates can help customers decide, purchase and even set up

the new technology gifts."

Here are a few of Armstrong's must-have gifts for this holiday season:

Tablets and e-readers: Whether you're simply looking for convenient reading on the go, or a do-it-all

media device for the family, tablets continue to do more while costing you less. Products such as the

Kindle Fire HD, Nook HD or Google Nexus offer the same reader-friendly experience along with Wi-

Fi capabilities and 16 or 32 GB of storage, making it the perfect companion for storing and streaming

music and movies, as well. If you appreciate the latest technology, consider trade-in programs that

allow you to get value out of your old tablets and e-readers to upgrade to the newest model.

New Touch Screens: PC users can't wait to get their hands on this newest operating system for laptops,

ultra books and tablets. Windows 8 features a Start screen, live tiles that make it fun to navigate with

touch or a mouse and keyboard, apps for work and play in the Windows Store and more. Customers

purchasing a new PC that runs Windows 8 from Staples can receive free one-on-one training on how to

use the new system and more.

Tech Accessories: With tablets, e-readers and mobile devices exploding in popularity, it should come as

no surprise that accessories to improve the mobile computing experience are hot items this year. If you

have someone on your list that won't leave home without his tablet in hand, consider a tablet-friendly

keyboard such or fashionable case. For the person who enjoys the ability to take movies and music

everywhere, a pair of high-definition headphones is the perfect gift.

Shopping for technology during the holiday season doesn't have to be time consuming, once you find

the right place that has everything, you'll be able to check off that list in no time.