A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

I've never been much of a green thumb, and anytime someone gets me a new plant, it inevitably meets an untimely end in my apartment. But with the Grobal Self-Watering Plant Pot, my plants now have a fighting chance.

Created by renowned designer Karim Rashid, the Grobal combines a modern looking vase in fun pop colors with useful technology. Just simply pour water into the reservoir, add the Grobal soil, and the plant takes in water and nutrients as it needs it. It's a great addition for any new home or any host/hostess who'd rather spend time with their guests than watering the plants. 

Grobal Self Watering Plant Pot starting at $21.75

After I grew out of my baby clothes, they went straight to Goodwill, but with the green movement going strong, why not recycle them into something completely new? With Baby Clothes Quilt Kit, you can turn your little one's clothes and blankets into a precious keepsake. 

You don't have to be a seamstress to enjoy it (and trust me, seamstress I am not). The set comes with everything you need (thirteen white squares, batting, a quilt back), including very detailed instructions. After becoming an honorary "auntie" four times this month, I'm on the hunt for fresh and unique baby shower gifts and this kit might just do the trick.

Baby Clothes Quilt Kit starting at $28.00

While we may be spread out across the country, the joy of outdoor grilling makes all of my family reunions a success. And every year Dad hogs the grill while the kids only get to watch in awe. Why not get the little ones involved with the Kids Play BBQ?

Throw some faux burgers on the grill, turn up the heat with the silver knobs, and add some pretend ketchup and mustard from the no-mess squirt bottles. Or better yet, give your junior grill-master the Kids Chef Play Set complete with apron, chef's hat and oven mitt. Add a picnic table, and the youngsters will be able to throw a barbecue all their own.

Kids Play BBQ starting at $149.00 

I won't dip a toe in the ocean because I saw Jaws when I was about 11 years old.  But in a way I'm thankful, because I can only imagine the impact Discovery Channel's Shark Week has on kids these days. All kidding aside, I look forward to Shark Week every July.  Not only am I amazed abut how much we (humans) don't know about sharks, but I also look forward to seeing some of the fun shark-related products out there that would make great summertime gifts.  So dive in and enjoy these not-so menacing goodies.

With temperatures rising and a serious dry spell in summer entertainment, some of us long for the chilly and cheery times of the holiday season. Good thing, it’s time for Christmas in July.  

Throw a party at home or surprise loved ones with some holiday cheer. Either way, we’ve got something for everyone on your list because Santa’s still on vacation.

For the festive family: This red and green Bocce Set is great backyard fun for any age.

For the trendy teen: These Chuck Taylor® All Star® Pine Tree shoes feature mini trees for those who like to dress festively year round.

For the holiday host/hostess: These cheeky Holiday Bar Exam Melamine Tidbit Dishes are a great way to spice up a holiday party without going overboard on themed decorations.

For the Thinker: Hit the beach or chill at home with the xmas-themed Little Red and Green Book of Crosswords from puzzle pros, The New York Times.

For the sweet tooth: It may be too early to wrap presents but it's not too early to send the edible kind with these Thank You Cookies from Dean and Deluca. 

Merry Christmas in July to all our readers!

We've all seen our share of streaking babies. Whether it's at the beach or on the playground, little ones don't care much about decorum. However, parents do, and they won't have to fret if their little one is wearing these Monogrammed Fancy Pants Diaper Covers.

These precious white bloomers cover unsightly diapers and keep tiny darlings looking stylish, even when they're taking a tumble or playing hide-and-go-seek under their dress. Ruffled legs and a colored monogram keep baby looking ladylike while the elastic waistband and wrinkle-free fabric make them super wearable. It's a great new baby gift for little ladies in training.  

Monogrammed Fancy Pants Diaper Covers starting at $16.00

If you haven't heard of Wall-E, you must be living under a rock. And if you already can't get enough of the little robot that could, these out-of-this-world toys are for you.

For the video gamer, check out the Wall-E game for Wii. Explore nine different worlds filled with puzzles and challenges along the way. Play as Pixar's lovable robot and help clean up the Earth or flit around as Eve, Wall-E's love interest.

For those who want a Wall-E of their very own, there's the U-Command Wall-E remote control robot. Make Wall-E talk, dance and scoot around your living room all with the push of a button. 

Like the movie, these techie toys are a great birthday gift for kids of all ages.

Wall-E Nintendo Wii starting at $39.99

U-Command Wall-E starting at $52.69.

After enduring 9 months of pregnancy, sometimes a new mom needs a gift that goes beyond a diaper cake. So take your cue from celebrity moms like Nicole Richie and Kate Hudson and spoil your new mom with this gorgeous 14k Gold Script Initial Pendant.

This lovely charm features a scripted initial enclosed in a circle, signifying the first letter of the new bundle's name. Pair this with a delicate gold chain, and Mom will have a shiny keepsake she can wear at all times. It's a stylish and thoughtful push present any mom will appreciate.

14k Gold Script Initial Pendant starting at $59.99

Every woman needs three things for the perfect night out: a little black dress, new shoes and a fun cocktail shaker — preferably one with a splash of color. This Red Metro Bar Cocktail Shaker fits the bill and would be an excellent addition to any bachelorette party.

With a contemporary, leak-proof design, built-in strainer and a retro look, this cocktail shaker is the perfect gift for the woman who doesn't plan on giving up ladies night just because she's getting hitched. Give her the encouragement she needs to stay one of the girls even after she ties the knot and remind her that the fourth thing every woman needs is a girlfriend who knows her well enough to always give the perfect gift.

Metro Bar Cocktail Shaker Red starting at $19.99

I have an addiction and I'm not afraid to admit it, and that addiction is the new Boom Blox game for Wii. Pretty soon, you'll be hooked too because we are giving away copies of Boom Blox this week.

Want to win? Post a comment below and tell us about your favorite family bonding activity by 11:59 p.m. EST Thursday, July 24. One comment per person please, multiple comments will be discarded. Click here to read the official rules.