Photo Credit: Alma Schneider

Butterscotch Sauce

Butterscotch sauce is one of my favorite go-to edible gifts. It’s quick and easy to prepare in bulk and drips with holiday spirit. Feel free to splash a bit of rum in there if it seems appropriate.

(Makes enough to fill 2 6 – 8-ounce Mason jars.)

Supplies for gift packaging:

* 6 or 8-ounce Mason jars

* Sticker labels

* Ribbons

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

* 2 cups light brown sugar, packed

* 1 cup heavy cream

* Dash of salt

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves, about 5 – 10 minutes.

2. Keep stirring, add in the heavy cream and salt.

3. Keep stirring until combined.

4. Add the vanilla extract, stir and let cool.

5. When cooled, store in a Mason jar (or any glass jar with a lid) and put in the fridge.

Photo Credit: Field Notes

Field Notes Memo Book

“I’m not writing it down to remember it later, I’m writing it down to remember it now.”

Field Notes offers many fine pads and implements for the writer and serial list maker in your life. This tiny writing pad comes in graph, ruled and plain paper and makes the perfect gift for anyone who’s constantly trying to organize his thoughts. It’s just the right size for musings on life, keeping track of the funny things friends say or making To-Do lists. And this hip notepad will fit right in their back pocket.

Original Memo Book – Field Notes ($9.95 for 3)

Photo Credit: Doodle Birdie

Moss Terrarium Pendant

Looking for a necklace that will lead to shouts of “It’s Alive!” Well look no further. Inspired by the current terrarium trend in home décor, this Moss Terrarium Pendant allows wearers to carry a piece of the whimsical mossy woods even as they move through their daily routine. Find it and other interesting gifts in the Doodle Birdie store on Etsy.

Moss Terrarium Pendant – Doodle Birdie (Etsy) ($10)

Photo Credit: The Brooklyn Kitchen

King Cube Ice Cube Tray

Is there such thing as the Cadillac of ice-trays? I’m here to tell you yes, and it can be found at The Brooklyn Kitchen. The King Cube Ice Cube Tray, made out of food-grade silicone, is specially designed to create ice cubes that take longer to melt. Your drink gets cold, but isn’t all watery. The ice cubes easily pop out of the tray — unlike with most ice cube trays. That cold drink just got a little more refreshing.

King Cube Ice Cube Tray – The Brooklyn Kitchen ($8.50)

Photo Credit: Spoon Sisters

It’s the Thought (Under $25)

Keep the Father’s Day mood light with Spoon Sisters’ Work Less Play More notepad. This pad’s sheets of paper crumple up into various sports ball shapes. He’ll enjoy taking a break from work for a quick game of trashcan basketball.

Although most dads wouldn’t think to request candles as gifts, this flammable trinket is the perfect relaxation aid for Mr. Over-Stressed and Under-Appreciated. Dad can light Uncommon Goods‘ Porcelain Campfire and decompress from a long day; a malted beverage is optional. The whimsical “campfire” shape adds a manly spin what some might see as a less than manly gift.

Think back to pictures of your dad growing up: the jean shorts, the huge glasses, the oh-so-white sneakers. Face it… dads are the original hipsters. And Fred Flare recognizes this. Its book Dads Are The Original Hipsters comes complete with silly photos and commentary from the blog of the same name. Leaf through pages of dads in knit hats and Chukka boots with your own dad. You’re guaranteed a laugh. Bonus points if he busts out his own hipster pics from back in the day.

Work Less Play More Ball Paper Notepad – Spoon Sisters ($8.95)

Porcelain Campfire – Uncommon Goods ($20.00; $11.99 on sale)

Dads Are The Original Hipsters – Fred Flare ($13.95)

Photo Credit: Behringer

It’s The Thought (Under $50)

Kickstart that “when I was young” conversation with Dad by putting his iPhone in a retro Musubo protective case resembling an old microphone. Should this be too audiophile geeky, get him the version that looks like sneaker soles.

Dad often takes a pounding, so make him a real Superman with a G-Form shirt. It’s soft and flexible but acts like armor when something hits it.  This breathable compression fabric can even withstand a washing machine, in case he really puts it to the test.

Call Dad’s bluff about his old band. Offer to transfer his garage cassettes using Behringer‘s UPHONO 48kHz audio converters. Or, just say you got it so he can play all that old vinyl of his on an iPod or other mobile device. It’s best to be nice around Father’s Day.

Tell Dad to cut the cord. He’ll barely notice these lightweight Gogroove padded cups cradling his ears; they weigh in at only three ounces and last up to 15 hours on a charge. But he’ll surely notice all the extra goodies, like the built-in microphone and volume control.

Retro iPhone 4/4S Case – Musubo ($34.99)

Sternum Shirt – G-Form ($39.99)

Behringer U-PHONO UFO202 – Amazon ($33.99)

GOgroove SolaceAIR Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headset – Amazon ($16.99)

Photo Credit: Aubrey Elizabeth Apothecary on Etsy

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

After bills and that unexpected parking ticket, spending on a present can hit the wallet pretty hard. We’ve all been there, no need to worry. With a little extra research, you can find presents to give mom a fun day or last her well past Mother’s Day.

For the gift of a relaxing spa experience without springing for the all-day package, just think outside the box. Etsy shop Aubrey Elizabeth Apothecary makes charming soaps fashioned after various treats. Consider the cinnamon bun soaps for $6.25; the sweet scent will add a little luxury to mom’s next hot bath. This Etsy shop also carries macaron and popsicle soaps, lip scrubs and lotions — all for less than $10.

Breakfast in bed is a Mother’s Day go-to for youngsters looking to impress mom with their toast-making and coffee-pouring skills. Now that you’re older, update the classic breakfast in bed with McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix. McClure’s, a Detroit and Brooklyn-based pickle company, makes the mix with its spicy pickle brine and heaps of garlic, hot peppers, dill and fresh cucumber juice. Order her a 32-ounce batch online for just $10.50.

For a useful present with longevity, choose the Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker for $19.77. The sleek design and ease of use will make this stovetop maker a family favorite for years. Throw the Moka on the stove with some fresh espresso grinds for classic espresso in minutes. Curl up on the couch and catch up with mom as you enjoy your morning boost of caffeine.

Or, give mom something she probably wishes she had all along: a “No” button! The Spoon Sisters‘ big red button emits ten different variations of the word we heard all too much growing up. Grab this silly gift for just $11.95.

Cinnamon Bun Soaps – Aubrey Elizabeth Apothecary on Etsy ($6.25)

Bloody Mary Mix – Dean & Deluca ($10.50)

Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker – Amazon ($19.77)

The “No” Button – The Spoon Sisters ($11.95)

(Photo Credit: ematic.us)

It’s The Thought (Under $50)

Who says you have to spend a fortune to make mom happy? The eMatic eSport Clip,$24.98, is a great multi-use gadget to cover mom’s basic media needs. This handy device can play music, take pictures, record video, read text files and even record voice memos. All that comes in a sporty little package with a low price. What’s not to love?

The Coby Digital Photo Keychain, $10.99, can hold all of mom’s most precious memories wherever she goes. She’ll be extra surprised when she discovers all the pictures you’ve uploaded ahead of time.

The Bracketron Universal USB Power Dock for $29.95 will give a charge to the woman on-the-go. Mom can power up her smartphone and enjoy hands-free access while she carts the kids around or drives to her next business meeting.

eSport Clip – Walmart ($24.98)

Digital Photo Keychain – B & H ($10.99)

Universal USB Power Dock – Bracketron ($29.95)

Photo Credit: Chase Authentics

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

As a kid, getting clothes for a gift was the worst. But as an apartment-dwelling adult, anything that keeps you out of the laundry room is more than welcome. So, whether that sports fan in your life is an actual NASCAR fan or just an admirer of Ricky Bobby, this Chase Authentics Tony Stewart Americana T-Shirt is worth every penny ($21.95). At the very least, it’s one more day that he doesn’t have to search for quarters.

NASCAR isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but what about NFL cheerleaders in bikinis? Decades of instant access to the Internet may have ruined his ability to appreciate the art form that is the swimsuit calendar. But at the very least, he can pretend it’s still 1996 and support his favorite team at the same time. Take a gander at the San Francisco 49ers Official Gold Rush Cheerleaders 2012 Swimsuit Wall Calendar, a steal at $15.99.

Now, let’s say that fan on your list thinks NASCAR isn’t a sport. And the idea of a calendar might make him feel bad about spending too much alone time. The best remedy is to support the court out on the course and grab a gift by the balls… literally. He can get his PGA on NBA-style with a Miami Heat 3-Pack Team Logo Golf Balls. At only $12.95, it’s so cheap that even NBA owners couldn’t lock it out.

Tony Stewart Americana T-Shirt – Chase Authentics ($21.95)

San Francisco 49ers Official Gold Rush Cheerleaders 2012 Swimsuit Calendar – Fanshop ($15.99)

Miami Heat Team Logo Golf Balls -Fanshop ($14.95)

Photo Credit: Photojojo

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

For the perfect shot, these camera lens shot glasses from Photojojo at $18 are just what your budding photog needs. Modeled after the Canon EF 24-105mm zoom lens, and just as detailed, right down to the raised switches, they come in sets of three. They can also be used as tiny planters or storage for memory cards.

For the truly crafty, Mark Montano, designer for the TV show “While You Were Out,” recently released “The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2.” This sequel to the wildly popular 2008 edition is the ultimate in creative inspiration, covering everything from decking out your living space to making your own all-natural body products. Find the 384-page gem on Amazon for just $13.17.

The Ticket Stub Diary lets those sentimental scrapbookers save tickets from museums, concerts and movies and jot down their thoughts. Maybe this will inspire them to finally dismantle that shrine to Lady Gaga. The diary retails for $10.09 at goHastings. The “Q & A a day” 5-year journal, available at Overstock, prompts the writer to answer a new question everyday. This will help your favorite creative track their progression, both as an artist and a person. If they have commitment issues, opt for something a little less intimidating. The “One Sketch a Day” visual journal from Chronicle Books for $15.95 is a charming little keepsake with spaces to draw for one year.

Camera Lens Shot Glasses – Photojojo ($18)

The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 – Amazon ($13.17)

Ticket Stub Diary – goHastings ($10.09)

“Q & A a Day” 5-Year Journal – Overstock ($11.43)

“One Sketch a Day” Visual Journal – Chronicle Books ($15.95)

Photo Credit - Callet

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

The iPhone is anything but warm and cuddly. And it’s definitely not cheap. But put it inside the the Woogie 2 from Griffin Technology, and it becomes a plush toy for the kids to play with. The Woogie’s legs form a base to stand it up, and the touch-through plastic shield keeps little fingers from poking too hard.

Maybe protecting a smartphone from adults — not kids — is the problem. We’ve all dropped our expensive devices while digging through our pockets. The Callet solves this problem, combining a smartphone case with a wallet for double the protection. The case guards the phone from wear and tear, while the slit pockets provide quick and safe access to cash and credit cards.

Let the technophile declare war on those roving bands of pen thieves invading his cubicle or home office. A few clicks of the mouse aims and fires this USB Rocket Launcher from Thinkgeek. Unsuspecting victims of a foam missile attack will never know what hit them. Maybe war isn’t the answer. The Grassy Lawn Charging Station offers a “green” solution to all those unsightly cords and cables. No fertilizer needed.

Woogie 2 – Griffin Technology ($19.99)

The Callet – Callet ($19.95)

USB Rocket Launcher – Thinkgeek ($24.99)

Grassy Lawn Charging Station – Thinkgeek (24.99)

Photo Credit: Uncommon Goods

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

Being on a budget doesn’t mean your gift giving should suffer. Get creative with wacky accessories or helpful tools. By grabbing a few smaller gifts, you can pull together a unique themed gift bag that’s personalized to someone special.

Get artsy with Uncommon Goods‘ Travel Stub Diary for $14.95. The diary has room for recording memories, pasting brochures or ticket stubs, and jotting down small details. The company’s scratch-off world map is both a colorful travel to-do list and a great decoration for walls. Or, give your favorite traveler a reminder of their adventures to showcase at home. Etsy is home to a multitude of cute prints, like this Keep Calm and Travel On piece.

If you’re looking for practical gifts with flair, consider the Mobile Foodie Survival Kit for $26 or the Jumping Juniper Shampoo Bar for $9.95 from Lush, a quality and eco-friendly cosmetics line. For the outdoorsy adventurer, Contigo’s Kangaroo Water Bottle comes with a hidden storage compartment that’s perfect for some cash, card and keys while out and about – all for $11.49.

Travel Stub Diary – Uncommon Goods ($14.95)

Scrach Off Travel Map – Uncommon Goods ($24.00)

Keep Calm And Travel On Print – Etsy ($15.95)

Mobile Foodie Survival Kit – Uncommon Goods ($26.00)

Jumping Juniper Shampoo Bar – Lush ($9.95)

Contigo Kangaroo Water Bottle – Amazon ($11.49)

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

A gift card from Amazon, iTunes, Barnes & Noble or Target are all fine and dandy. But a rubbernecker will really appreciate a gift card from his or her favorite gas station. With a gallon of unleaded as expensive as it is these days, $25 can go a long way to telling someone you really care. Plus, they can use the card to get a bottle of Gatorade or a quart of oil while they’re filling up. SVM Cards has a wide selection gas and non-gas gift cards to choose from.

The iGrip Viewer is a lifesaver for any parent with a restless toddler in the backseat. Attach this sucker to the front seat headrest and load a child’s favorite movie. This movie-watching mount is designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch, but is compatible with most smartphones. The mount can be adjusted to any angle in both portrait and landscape view. The small screen won’t bother a child; just watching Dora on an adventure with Boots is enough to keep the little tyke quiet.

Photo Credit: High Road

People who live out of their cars tend to have empty water bottles, food wrappers, receipts and other trash littered all over the place. The High Road TrashStand will end all of those “please excuse the mess” comments from friends and coworkers along for a ride. It’s leakproof, easy to wash and has a weighted bottom and Velco-like grip to keep it in place on the vehicle floor.

Who says car massagers have to be expensive? The driver can direct the intensity of the massage to three independent zones while logging those commuter miles. The Dr. Scholl’s portable massager even has heat to help loosen up those tight muscles. Auto and AC adapters are included, of course.

Gas Gift Card – SVM Cards ($10 and up)

iGrip Viewer – Amazon ($14.49)

TrashStand Car Floor Litter Bin – High Road ($17.24)

5-Motor Full Cushion Massager – Dr. Scholl’s ($19.99)

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

It’s The Thought (Under $25)

There are plenty of gifts that are gentle on the wallet yet yummy in the tummy. Brighten up your giftee’s day right from the start with a bag of organic Peruvian coffee from The Fair Trade Coffee Company. These beans produce a medium-bodied and well-rounded cup. And they’re produced by workers who are treated fairly, under conditions that are kind to the environment.

The Al Dente Pasta Company will send those pasta lovers on your list a tasty trio of all-natural, handmade pastas. The Wholee Grain-Ohlee gift set includes Multigrain, Roasted Garlic and Fettuccine and tells the recipient “enjoy your dinner on me!” Each cooks up in about three minutes.

Miss Nicky’s Gourmet Almond Toffee is one of my personal favorites. Not only is this toffee insanely delicious and addictive, it actually has many health benefits. Miss Nicky uses whole nuts and spices, making this a great gift for anyone who is gluten-sensitive, diabetic or overweight but still enjoys sweets. Her customers include Maya Angelou, Magic Johnson and makeup mogul Bobbi Brown. Be sure to get an extra box for yourself.

Photo Credit: Seasons Taproom

Vinegar… as a gift? If you’ve ever tried dark chocolate vinegar mixed with a good olive oil on a salad, you already know why giving this will make you a bigger celeb than Santa. Seasons Taproom is based in Bethlehem, PA, but they will carefully package vinegars and oils to ship anywhere in the country.

Peruvian Organic Coffee Beans (1 pound) – The Fair Trade Coffee Company ($12.00)

Wholee Grain-Ohlee Pasta Gift Set – Al Dente Pasta Company ($15.00)

Gourmet Almond Toffee (8-ounce box) – Miss Nicky’s ($22.00)

Dark Chocolate Vinegar – Seasons Taproom ($14.95)