Odd Gifts for the Homemaker

If you took part in the past weekend’s shopping frenzy, you probably have most of your gift list taken care of. But if you still have the odd one or two people who seem to be difficult to shop for, here are some fun ideas.

* Extreme Ironing Wall Calendar – Somewhere out there, there are people who combine the simple task of ironing with extreme sports. This calendar shows the lengths and breadths that people will take to have a well-pressed shirt. “From its humble beginnings in the English city of Leicester in 1997, Extreme Ironing is now a global phenomenon with hundreds of ironists from around the world taking ironing to the edge. Sized 12” x 12”. Priced at $12.99 at Avalanche Publishing.

* Cruzin Cooler Motorized Scooter-Cooler – This is the perfect gift for the guy who loves to tailgate. The Cruzin Cooler will get him to the game and keep his beverages cool at the same time! It is “light-weight and comes in various sizes and is available in gas and electric models, with a 10 mile range on electric models and 30 miles on the gas models.” It even comes with options like padded seats, backrests, covers and a wagon/trailer. Priced starting at $349 at Yachtzee.

* Custom Printed Toilet Paper – The holidays seem to bring out the extreme decorator in some people, where everything has to be decorated to reflect the season. The custom printed toilet paper will add the finishing touch. You can choose your own design or image, and have as few as four rolls printed. At Printed TP.

* BIRDS-AWAY Attack Spider Woodpecker Deterrent – This is a “battery-operated device that will chase away damage-causing woodpeckers. Activated by sound, the spider drops down on an 18 inch string while making a loud noise. Then it climbs back up the string, ready to attack again. This unusual solution is both very inexpensive and highly effective.” If your house is plagued by woodpeckers, maybe you should put this on your wishlist. At Attack Spider.

* Pee-Pee TeePees – This is a gift that parents of baby boys understand. “An ideal baby shower gift, the five powder blue 100% cotton pee-pee teepees are decorated with airplanes and arrive in a miniature cotton laundry bag”. Don’t be vulnerable, get a teepee. Listed at $14 at Uncommon Goods.

* Motorized Ice Cream Cone – For the exceptionally lazy ice cream lover. No need to turn the cone, this will do it for you. All you need to do is load the ice cream, stick out your tongue and push the button. The Motorized cCone has “a detachable rotating dish for easy cleaning, patented turntable technology and an on/off button.” Several colors available. Listed at $8.95 at Ouray Toys.

* Savvy Bachelor Mop Slippers - Lastly, these Mop Slippers might come in really handy, not just for the bachelor but also for busy moms. Called “the pinnacle of multi-tasking”, these comfy 11-1/2″ long slippers will clean your floors while you go about your business in the house. If they come in small sizes, I might buy a pair for my toddler. Made of soft fabric that is washing machine safe, listed at $14.89 at Prank Place.

[Sources: Daily Bulletin; Monterey Herald]

Tags: homemaking, gift ideas, housekeeping, odd gifts