Gifts

As one of the millions of singletons definitely not looking forward to Valentine's Day this year, I thought it only appropriate to compile a lengthy list of gifts to give your loved one if you'd like to join the ever-expanding crowd of single Americans.

Legend has it the rare albino elephant was sacred in Thailand and each new white elephant became the property of the king. It was forbidden to kill such an elephant or to use it for work, so whenever the king wished to punish an obnoxious underling, he'd present him with one of these useless pale pachyderms.

Americans are ready to show mom some bigger love this year by upgrading our Mother's Day gifts. Consumer spending for the holiday is expected to total $14.6 billion this year, averaging $126.90 per person. That's up $3 from 2009.

Military Moms miss so much when stationed overseas, but being away from family on Mothers Day must be extremely difficult. Sadly, there are so many limitations on shippable gifts that are also acceptable to the military.

The Gospel According to Matthew tells how the Three Wise Men brought the baby Jesus gold, frankincense and myrrh, thus setting off a tradition that has evolved into Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The Wise Men also started a tradition of guys not wrapping their presents. We know this to be true because nativity scenes never include wrapping paper or neatly tied bows.

The best baby shower gifts are thoughtful, unexpected and, most importantly, safe. You want a gift that considers the unique needs of expecting parents, stands out from the rest, and will protect infants no matter where they go.

Winter sports junkies are a strange, strange breed. What do you get the off-kilter loved one who's unfazed by frostbite? These 15 essential goods are coveted across the snow sports gamut and Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to update any winter warrior's closet.

Bros, geeks, soccer moms, tree huggers, metrosexuals  and military moms: Gift ideas for some stereotypes may be harder than you would first think.

Do you whine each year about the difficulty of buying a gift for dad then fall back on a lame tie? Get with it! Internet shopping has opened up a brave new world of giggle-inducing gifts to please all paternal units.

You've braved the crowds at Megamart and find yourself fourteen shoppers deep in the checkout line. A quick survey of your cart reveals you've forgotten an essential element to Christmas shopping. The obligatory wrapping paper.  Groan.