A shopping blog of cool gift ideas

I thought I had it bad when I had to carry more than one book in my Jansport. But that's nothing compared to the backbreaking burden teachers often have to lug around. So why not help lighten the load with this old-school Boston Public Library Delivery Bag? It's the perfect way to show you appreciate him or her on Teacher's Day.

The huge canvas bag is modeled after the actual totes used to transfer books between the Boston Public Library branches, so you know it's sturdy. Not to mention it can handle up to 27 pounds of books (though I wouldn't try that at home). And it's just nerdy enough to appeal to a real Thinker.

Boston Public Library Delivery Bag starting at $48.00 

Back when I was in school, only the naughty kids had their names written on the board. But now it's a good thing to have your name on the board — a chalkboard mug, that is.

The #1 Teacher Chalk Talk Message Mug is a unique and clever way to send a message to a favorite teacher this Teacher's Day. Forget greeting cards, your kids will want to sign their names on this cool mug to show their appreciation for their teachers in a way that leaves a more lasting impression. Have any three lines you choose etched on the front of the mug, so the sentiment will remain even after washings. Way better than a standard apple, the Chalk Talk Message Mug will be a big hit with your kids' teachers!  

#1 Teacher Chalk Talk Message Mug starting at $14.95

Your child will be the apple of his or her teacher's eye this Teacher's Day with this "classy" Gin Emerald Jade Apple Pendant Necklace. Pretty enough to be worn on the neck of any woman, but perfect for a teacher, the eye-catching three dimensional apple inspired jade necklace dangles from a charming sterling silver chain and features a matte finish on the stem and leaf. Subtle and sophisticated, the necklace is a great way to show appreciation for a special teacher this Teacher's Day — especially one you want to celebrate with a sweet and personal gift this year!

Gin Emerald Jade Apple Pendant Necklace starting at $39.95

Whatever you do, don't send your kids to school on May 6 without Teacher's Day gifts. And since most teachers' desks will probably be piled high with a collection of apple keepsakes, mugs and bath sets, you might want to choose something a little different this year. The Gifts.com Gift Card is an option that will allow your child's teacher to select something he or she really wants.

Teachers can redeem the card for something that suits their interests outside of school. If he loves going to rock concerts or sports games he can redeem it for gift cards to Ticketmaster. If she's got a serious shopping addiction, she can redeem it for gift certificates to Macy's or J. Crew. My bet is, no matter what, teachers won't be redeeming the Gifts.com Gift Card for a "#1 Teacher" paperweight. 

Gifts.com Gift Card starting at $25

Check out this cookie: it’s me!

My parents sent a bunch of these to me as a congratulations gift when Gifts.com won the People’s Voice Webby Award. They were a big hit around the office, and the quality of the image is impressive. Our picture here doesn’t really do it justice (no offense Dan T.!).

Corso’s Cookies can print anything on a cookie, as long as the image is in the correct format, so they’re a great way to celebrate all kinds of photo-worthy occasions like birthdays, retirements, and new babies.

Logo Cookie Gift Basket starting at $39.95

Teacher Appreciation Week starts now. Have you gotten a ‘thank-you for making my kid smart’ gift yet for your child’s teacher? If not, don’t settle for a last minute cop out like an apple — I know you can do better than that! Instead, check out our gift list for a bunch of awesome ideas including sugary treats and personalized goodies.

My favorite from our roundup? These funky thermoses. Speaking as a former teacher, I definitely needed some coffee to get me through the a.m. hours. One of these will keep the teacher’s brew hot all morning, and you’ll get an A+ for giving her something unique.

Fashionable Thermoses starting at $44