A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

One gift that you can expect to see at the top of lots of teen and tween boy's Christmas lists this year this year is the RipStick Mini DLX.

Like a skateboard, snowboard, and surfboard all in one, it's a rip-roaring good time (pun intended)! The awesome two-wheel caster board flexes in the middle, speeding you forward (even uphill!) and turning on a dime. Thrill-seekers ages 8 and up will love its smooth ride. If it's not on his wish list yet? Well, you'll just be ahead of the game!

RipStick Mini DLX starting at $99.95 

Since I'm the only guy hanging an ornament on the Gift Rap tree, I had to go for humor. This Reindeer Poop Happens ornament does it for me. It's funny, yet blends in with the other ornaments just enough so that an easily offended guest might not notice. You can bet your kids will get a good laugh out of this one too. If you need a gag gift for your office gift swap, this is perfect! 

Reindeer Poop Happens Ornament starting at $12.95 

TGIF. You've got your paycheck in hand and we've got a few ideas on how to blow it—on family and friends, of course. But feel free to treat yourself too. Nothing wrong with a little self-gifting.

For the weekend kickoff: Mix martinis in record time with this electric bartender–the hardest part is deciding if you want your drink shaken or stirred. 

For the cute-loving cook: An adorable Panda Bear Skillet because one she sees it she won't want to live without it! (via Oh! Shiny)

For the first day of Hanukkah: A block set that illustrates eight Jewish holidays, put them together to form a menorah complete with kid-safe cardboard candles.

For cupcake addicts (no judgments): Feed cravings with a snowman mini-cake pan that makes festive-shaped versions of the favorite treat.

For your brother's stocking: Madballs. Remember those gross-faced bouncey balls of the 80's? They're back and worth a laugh. (via Uncrate) 

For your sister's stocking: Help her find the perfect gloss with a trio of tan lip colors from the MAC finery collection all packed up in an antiquey mini clutch. (via 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic)

I'm an expert when it comes to laptop bags. I've been through briefcases, sleeves, handbags, you name it. Now meet my newest obsession: the Pan Am Secret Laptop Bag.

The turquoise-colored case is full of kitschy appeal, boasting the old Pan Am logo right on the front pocket. The outer shell is made of PVC, which adds to the nostalgia and means it's water-resistant (so those inevitable coffee spills don't ruin your precious possession). It's beyond cool and obviously an ideal Christmas or Hanukkah gift for jet-setting, laptop-toting travelers. Or for those who just ooze retro-cool and need a bag to match.

Pan Am Secret Agent Laptop Bag starting at $99

I know many guys who think dressing up means throwing on a clean T-shirt and shaving. But who can blame them? I certainly wouldn't want to put on a boring old suit every day.

These funky Paul Smith Dog Cufflinks are a unique way to spiff up his Sunday best. The whimsical red bulldogs are made by one of the top British fashion designers, so you know they're stylish. And your man can wear them with anything from a plaid shirt to a tux. A great holiday gift for Hipster guys or any dude who just likes to add a little personality to his duds!

Paul Smith Dog Cufflinks starting at $90

Today it's my turn to add my festive touch to the Gift Rap tree. I love how these Dreidel Ornaments bring together both Christmas and Hanukkah. The pair is made from hand blown glass and they're the perfect way to represent my peeps on the tree. And if I hang the dreidels on the tree, that means I get to keep them out long after the Hanukkah lights are out!They're the perfect thing to give to friends and family who celebrate both holidays.  

Dreidel Ornaments starting at $17.95 

This year eco-friendly toys should be on the top of your shopping list. The green movement is booming and their are lots of reasons to choose stuff made from renewable, organic and natural materials. And if you're worried about purchasing safe toys, green toys will give you a peace of mind that chunky plastic ones can't.

For Babies: The Organic Infant Gift Set by MiYim includes a teether, plush and blanket all made from 100% organic cotton that's free of chemicals, pesticides and synthetics. 

For Little Kids: These Fair Trade Wild Things from Sri Lanka are made of hand-woven cottons that get their bright colors from natural veggie dyes. And the added bonus–these cute creatures are crafted by victims of the 2004 tsunami to help them get back on their feet.

For Big Kids: Get your child interested in environmental issues with a science kit like the H-Racer Fuel Cell Car. He'll be fascinated when he builds this car that runs battery-free. 

In fourth grade, I made a million friendship bracelets. In sixth, I had matching best friends forever charms with five of my closest chums. Now it's time to say konichiwa to Momiji dolls, the latest on the teen and tween friendship scene. These collectible Japanese dolls are irresistibly charming and full of Tokyo pop.

Each miniature resin doll has its own unique personality (happy, laughing, dreaming), so you can choose the perfect one for your pal. Plus, you can write your own secret message and slip it inside the base of the doll for a fun surprise. They're so adorable and addictive, you'll want to collect (and give) every one! Did I mention they make great stocking stuffers? Start spreading the love!

Momiji Friendship Doll starting at $12

I'm a total Discovery Channel junkie–I should just tell my DVR what Discovery shows NOT to record. Fishing, blowing up stuff, sharks, tattoos and survival skills are all in a days work on the Discovery Channel. So where do I come in on the Survivorman vs. Man vs. Wild debate? That's like asking me "Filet Mignon or N.Y. Strip?"…there's no wrong answer! Here a few of my favorite Discovery Channel gifts. These are perfect for the Guy's Guy and the Discovery Channel addict.

Discovery Survivorman Adventure Gift Set: With a water-resistant cyclops lantern light and adventure plus multi-tool which includes a safety mirror, compass, and safety whistle, in addition to the Survivorman: Mountain DVD.

Man vs. Wild DVD: Watch Bear Grylls get in and out of lots of crazy adventures and review all of the life-saving skills learned during season one.

Discovery Channel Gift Card: A free pass to indulge in his Discovery Channel obsession any way he wants.

The Best of the Discovery Channel on DVD: Find everything from Shark Week to Planet Earth all on DVD and ready to wrap up.