A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

Oprah had an episode recently called "What Makes America America" in which there were discussions about hamburgers, hot dogs, Dorothy's ruby red slippers and Pez Dispensers. The end of the episode focused on genealogy, though, and how empowering it can be to know our roots and where we come from. Chris Rock even shed a few tears when he learned his great-great grandfather fought in the Civil War, became a politician and owned 65 acres of land by the end of his life–a huge feat for a anyone, let alone a former slave.

Give the gift of genealogy to your own family. This leather bound Personalizable Family History book allows you to record events and pass down family traditions and information to the next generation. A great activity to beat winter boredom or to give to your family reunion host, it will become as much a family treasure as those ruby red slippers are to Americana! 

Personalizable Family History starting at $135

Grandparent's Day is coming up September 9. Need a gift idea to say thanks for being a great Grandmother or Grandfather? A photo collage is one great choice. Whether you go for a cutesy personalized name frame for each of the grandkids or a classy gallery frame, fill them with memorable pics of the whole family and you'll have an instant keepsake.

And if you don't want to go the personalized route, look for a gift based on Grandma's or Grandpa's interests.

Name Frame Photo Collage starting at $24.98 and Wall Frame starting at $32.95