Now, Ain't that Sweet?

There’s always a good reason to keep candy around. It’s a great icebreaker when new clients step into the office (“Can I interest you in a butterscotch button?”) and is always a crowd pleaser after a hearty catered sales luncheon (“Peppermint, anyone?”). Gimmees has a cute glass candy jar with a bubble lid that is priced nicely for your wallet. This candy jar makes for an ideal gift for a client or customer and is easily customized with your corporate details to ensure that your company name is out there. Imagine having these little glass cuties hanging out in various reception areas, on desks, and on kitchen counters? Your corporate name could be literally EVERYWHERE simply because who doesn’t like a piece of candy from time to time? New clients will be sweet on you and all because you thought out loud, “Let’s go the candy jar route!”

No Light? No Batteries? No Problem!

Have you ever had your power go out on a dark and stormy night only to discover that your flashlight’s batteries are long dead and you can’t find those AAs that you stored away for emergencies? Believe me when I say this unfortunate situation has happened to me more than once. That’s why I simply love, love, love this week’s top product: the crank up emergency light. No longer will you need to perform a scavenger hunt throughout your dark house searching high and low for those never to be found batteries. This cool device requires nothing more than a few cranks to get it started -- no batteries! -- and provides you with precious LED light. It also includes a built-in compass, just in case you are lost in the woods and need to find your way out. Seriously though, every person should own at least one of these gadgets – I keep mine right under the kitchen sink so it’s easy to locate when the power fails. Another great storage spot is in your night table drawer.

Let Her Feel Loved

There’s no good time like the present to offer a touch of pampering to someone’s life. December tends to be a month of extremes – gift buying, cookie eating, and the crowds at the mall – and sometimes all one needs is a little peace, quiet, and solitude. Why not shower your female employees or clients with something that you know will be pleasant and widely accepted? What woman doesn’t want a small token to make her feel special? An Essential Pamper-U Pouch is a gift that fits within your budget – and will let her know that you care about her overall wellbeing. The lavender fragrance from the products encourages calmness and soothes her soul. You’ll be thrilled because this thoughtful gift is a perfect present for all of the ladies on your list and yet it didn’t lead you to the poorhouse. So, consider your gift-buying done for the women in your life and it’s great to know one thing. You’ll be sure to make their “nice” list from now on!

The Kind of Mail You Like to Receive

It’s the season for card giving and your business had better not let old acquaintances be forgotten, so if you haven’t done so already, get moving on putting in an order to Gimmees. Add a touch of style to your holiday greeting for partners, clients, customers, and employees this year with a bit of song to bring some heartfelt cheer. Gimmees has several holiday sound cards: holiday snowflakes, holiday tree, happy new year, and holiday present. There’s no setup charge on these cards – which is a nice present for you during the holiday season. There’s so much we can all be thankful for this December – good health, long time customers, continued service – so make sure you remember those who are nearest and dearest to your business so that they will be sure to remember you in the coming year. A small thank you can go such a long way, and these cards won’t put a dent in your wallet or your expense account, but will bring a smile to each recipient.

Think Ahead for More Business in the New Year

With all the talk of turkey and stuffing this week, it’s hard to wrap your brain around or even pause to think about the fact that the old year is coming to a close and 2011 will be starting up in just a matter of six weeks. The craziness of the holiday season ensures that the new year sneaks up on us and before we can even top that slice of pumpkin pie with whipped cream, it seems that the decorations are down and January has returned. Don’t let this happen to your business! Make the effort now so that you are promoting yourself for all of 2011. A great idea for the new year is a Bic Business Card Magnet with Calendar. You give a gift that is practical, usable, and cost-effective – the calendar – coupled with a simple marketing tool – your business card – that gets you noticed throughout the new year. Spend a little cash to make a whole lot of new business. It’s a win-win situation for both you and the recipient. A little planning on your part right now will make all the difference come June or July, and for that, you’ll be thankful.

Live High on the Hog Bank

There’s something about a piggy bank that makes people smile. Whether it’s because the little thing is so cute and funny-looking, or because it reminds us of a simpler time when we were children, or if it’s because it stashes away something we all need more of, I don’t know. But piggy banks really are fun and actually, they are a really good thing to have. I keep one in my kitchen where I toss all kinds of change I find from the boys’ pockets, my overflowing wallet, or the nickels discovered in the family room couch. Then, whenever I need a few spare quarters to stick in the lunchboxes so the kids can get ice cream at school or am heading somewhere that I know will require change (think metered parking), I have quick and easy access. And here’s something to think about. I gave my sister in law one of these silver plated piggy banks about two years ago as a small gift to keep her change handy. She told me recently that the thing had gotten heavy and she decided to open it and count up her quarters. The result was a windfall of $245 she never even knew she had. Let’s just say, a much-deserved dinner out that night was on the pig.

Super-Sized Suitcases Get a Weigh-In

Who hasn’t set out on a much-deserved vacation with visions of warm tropical breezes, palm trees, and cooling drinks with floating pineapple chunks and little umbrellas in them only to arrive at the airport and be called back to reality? Usually, this occurs when you realize that your suitcase has a mind – or a weight – of its own and you’re about to receive a huge charge tacked on to your airline ticket because your bag is a bit on the obese side. Not the best way to start out your vacation now, is it? Don’t let this nonsense happen to you on your next trip. Instead you can be prepared before you even get to the airport with the Departures Luggage Scale. This handy gadget will save you time and money and prevent headaches and hits to your wallet at the airport. The perfect gift for the savvy traveler or employee who is always on the go, the Departures Luggage Scale will keep your suitcase on a diet at all times, letting you know when you go overboard. And it comes with its own storage bag, so make sure you bring it along on your next vacation to prevent you from going overboard with those cutesy tourist magnets and t-shirts.

A Promotional Item You Can Really Sink Your Teeth Into

It’s not surprising these days to see employees brown bagging their lunches – and breakfasts, too! – and heading to the office with the sandwich du jour in tow. Fast food is so unhealthy and lunches out can be pricey as well as detrimental to special diets. It makes sense to pack lunch because you know what you are getting and last night’s leftover lasagna will certainly be a lot tastier than a greasy double cheeseburger from the local drive-thru. And bagging up lunch from home is surely going to keep greenbacks in your wallet. Need another reason to eat what’s in your fridge on the go? Gimmees has containers that you can tailor with your corporate name like the snack mini, cereal to go, and snack and dip container which are perfect for your employees, clients, and customers to use on a daily basis for lugging food items to work or any other place they go. Each of these containers has a freezer gel feature that keeps cold foods cold. So, your carrot sticks and pepper slices with ranch dressing are nice and chilled for crunching and dipping, not disgustingly lukewarm.

What Will YOU Give Out this Holiday Season?

Although October has not yet closed itself out with a leafy finale that has left colors of yellow, red, and orange all over your back lawn, it’s never too early to begin thinking about those gifts that you will be giving to you loyal customers and clients around the December holidays. The savvy business professional must always be thinking ahead to the next marketing opportunity and giving calendars and day planners to those you do business with ensures that your name and corporate identity will be in front of your clients for the next 12 months. If you’re thinking small, try the business card calendar magnet. Larger marketing budgets call for the Day-Timer Kingston Pocket Planner. And for those who are in between, there’s the commercial calendar. Spend a little or a lot on your corporate gifts this holiday season, but remember that everyone – be it a dental patient, new pet owner, supermarket customer, or insurance client -- can use calendars and planners. Gimmees has the right selection for your needs with a large catalog of promotional items to fit any budget. Don’t wait until you’re eating turkey leftovers. The time to do your shopping is now!

Swivel Me This, Batman

Years ago, I started working for a company not long after I graduated from college. It was my first real job and I remember going shopping for new suits and shoes to create a wardrobe for the office. The youngest in the marketing department, I felt I had some serious shoes – those new ones I had just purchased – to fill. So, it was very exciting when a client came in and gave each of us marketing employees promotional items. And the funny thing is that nearly 16 years after the fact, I still have that promo item: a swivel clock. It’s in my home office still running, still telling time as well as it did in 1995. And I imagine I’ll keep it forever, or as long as I’m on the planet because I like it, it’s dependable, and it’s one of those classic-looking timepieces that never goes out of style. That’s the kind of promotional item you want to hand out to your customers and clients – something that they will always remember and that they will want to keep around. Something that is timeless. Remember this the next time you place your order at Gimmees.

The Hunt for Pink October

Unless you’ve been living in a cave on a deserted island a la Castaway for the past five or so years, you know that not only is October a full 31 days of ghosts, goblins, fire prevention, and falling leaves, but it’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. High risk or not, every woman needs to make sure she gets annual mammograms as advised by her doctor. To remind women and their loved ones about the dangers of breast cancer and being vigilant in an effort to prevent this dreadful disease, Gimmees has a stockpile of pink items that include:

· Pedometers · M&Ms · Round mirrors · Magnetic ribbons

As someone who has been personally touched by this disease – my mother is a 12 year survivor (YAY MOM!) – I always wear my pink attire in October, but breast cancer is in my thoughts the other 11 months out of the year, too. I remember and honor those who weren’t as fortunate as my own mom. And remember, breast cancer doesn’t just tackle women. Although rare, men can get it, too. Visit Gimmees for all of your pink items for this month.

Fall Fun in the Sun, er Rain

It’s another rainy Sunday afternoon, and instead of being curled up on my couch with “Casablanca” on the tube, a classic novel in hand, and the fireplace roaring away, while I eat a hot bowl of soup, I’m soaking wet with my fingers slowly turning into numbness as I cheer on my son’s soccer team. The sacrifices we make as parents! Wait, let me just pull my Chenille Blanket a little bit closer to my shoulders, readjust that Ponch-O Poncho over my head and put that Arc Spectrum Umbrella up. There. Now, I’m warm, dry, and comfy. I can enjoy the game and watch the Deptford Fury trip up the opposition while I yell with excitement. And I still have a hand free to either wave a Rally Towel or toss around that Shake ‘Em Pom Pom. Ah, the excitement of Sunday afternoon. Who needs the TV and the fireplace? I have comfort and fun right here on my Breezy Mesh Chair and I’m cheering for my favorite player. And I have Gimmees to thank for all the goodies that are keeping me warm and happy when the team scores another goal.

Off with You, O' Stinky Ones!

It’s autumn now and that means that a new pest has come visiting at my house – the hideously creepy, brown stink bug. Do you have this problem, too? These pests are brown, shield-shaped, and emit a foul odor when squashed. And I’ve recently learned that stink bugs have invaded about 29 states in the continental US. Fortunately, these gross freaky bugs haven’t wreaked havoc on anyone in our home, although they usually send me into a screaming frenzy which makes my sons crack up laughing and my husband come running, exasperated with a, “Another stink bug? Can’t you kill them yourself?” The boys have taken to calling the stink bugs “Mommy’s beetle friends.” But I have empowered myself. I no longer will allow those disgustingly ugly freaks of nature to take over MY house or cause me to run screaming to the bathroom where I can bolt the door. I now have numerous 16 inch Giant Flyswatters ready to do battle with the ever present stink bug. Yes, I know the creatures will smell once smashed, but in my opinion, the only good stink bug is a dead stink bug. And the more I smash with no mercy, the less there will be to gain entrance into my stink-free home.

Stirred, Not Shaken, and with Sugar and Cream, Please

If there is one thing I can’t start my day without, it’s a cup of coffee. Even my two kids know that Mommy is useless until she’s had a few sips of her java. Ah, the sweet nectar of the gods! Once that caffeine is flowing through my veins, I’m right with the world. Are you the same way? Does your company have all the right products on hand to distribute to coffee-loving addicts? Here are a few of the Gimmees products that are perfect for the java lovers in your corporate life: a continental coffee scoop to ensure perfection each time you brew; a clear glass coffee mug; 11 ounce mood coffee mug, for when you need more caffeine to pump up your happiness; a coffee cup insulator that makes even your last sip as hot as the first; organic Fair Trade certified coffee so you know your java is fair to those who grew and harvested the beans; a hottie mug gift set because your coffee isn’t the only hot, sweet thang; and my personal favorite, the cup of coffee stress reliever for when the coffee machine in the cafeteria is broken.

Here, Fill Up My Glass

When the economy tanked, a lot of people stopped going out to dinner and instead decided to stay home and eat in their kitchens. The restaurant industry began to suffer, but today, families have returned to the eat-out scene, especially to BYOBs, which tend to be cheaper. BYOBs are great – the food is still tasty, but no one gets hit with a large tab for beverages, and restaurants don’t have to keep a bartender on staff. The next time you decide to visit a local restaurant, consider choosing a hot spot that doesn’t serve booze and bring your own. To make things convenient, Gimmees has a wide range of products to help you tote your alcohol in style, but still keeping lots of money in your wallet. There’s the Ice Wine Cooler, the Neoprene Drawstring Bag Bottle Holder, the Pacific Trail Wine Tote, and many more. So whether you are red or white, Merlot or chardonnay, sweet or dry, we recommend you visit a BYOB for a delicious and well-deserved meal out but tote along your favorite bottle to toast along to.

Brush Up on Safety.... with Gimmees!

No one ever wants to imagine that their dreams – or their home – will go up in flames. Last year, my family had a very narrow close call with fire, that if our neighbor hadn’t spotted the smoke, we might have lost our home. We are grateful to our friend for knowing what to do to quickly put the fire out. It’s always a good time to review the safety measures in your own house so that you and your loved ones are prepared for the worst case scenario. Nine times out of 10, you’ll never need to use such measures, but it’s better to be ready than to face an emergency unprepared. So, to brush up on ways to keep everyone in your house out of harm’s way, read the 101 Home Safety Tips Book and make sure all of the adults in your home read it, too. Share the information with children. This book provides critical information about child safety as well as the dangers of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Nothing is worth your life or the lives of those you love. Take it from me. I know!

Let's Make It Paper Tonight

I’m not sure if everyone is like me, but a paper plate can be a Godsend. Paper plates are terrific when my kids want to enjoy lunch on a sun-drenched day out on our deck in the backyard. Disposable plates are the best when I have a houseful of people over for a barbecue or party. Sometimes I simply enjoy the idea of not having to load the dishwasher after a big meal and paper plates are wonderful for that. But I am concerned about the environment and at times, paper plates can seem wasteful, as if my convenience is more important than the whales in the sea or the seals trying to stay alive in northern Canada. But Gimmees has great offerings for the times when paper plates just seem like the reasonable option: recycled 6” heavy duty paper plates and recycled 9” heavy duty paper plates. Gimmees has always been active in conserving energy and encouraging the use of recycled items and I’m thrilled that these paper plates are both handy and helpful yet enable me to use a smaller carbon footprint. So, anyone up for a barbecue tonight?

Nothing Like that Good Ole American Pastime

Baseball is America’s favorite pastime, and as my son would tell you, if there is a day without baseball, it isn’t worth getting out of bed. What’s not to love? Pinstripe uniforms, cheering crowds, hot dogs with mustard, and a sunny day in the ballpark are all reasons to take in a good baseball game. It could be little ones playing their first game of T-ball or your favorite MLB team on the field. Baseball evokes positive memories for most people. So, opt for giveaway baseballs as your next promotion. Include your company’s name, logo, and web site, and hand these baseballs out to your employees, partners, or customers. You don’t have to have a baseball team to get that nostalgic effect from your recipients. Just hand each person a ball, and watch him or her daydream a bit. You’re not only offering a promotional product, but you are reminding them of a simpler time – of hot dogs with mustard, the wind blowing just right, and the perfect pitch And isn’t that what memories are made of?

I'd Lose My Brain if it Wasn't Nailed to My Shoulders

When I arrive home from being out and about, everything goes flying – my car keys, my house keys, any change that was in my pocket, my cell phone… well, you get the idea. Then, an hour later as I’m heading back out the door, I can’t find anything! Where’s the cell phone? Why are my car keys not on the kitchen table? Does anyone know where that key ring with my house keys is? It’s like I’m a toddler again and I’ve lost my blankie! So, I’m loving this great new invention that Gimmees has: a Hold-It Handy Tray. I swear this adorable little plastic tray was invented specifically with me in mind! It’s perfectly sized to hold all of my important things and the best part is that everything stays in one place. No more running around the house looking for items or blaming my husband for taking my keys when in fact, he didn’t. And I can even bring my little Hold-It Handy Tray on vacation with me since it sits on a table and keeps all of my important belongings together yet takes up virtually no room in my suitcase. Ah, now if I could only find my cell phone….

Is It Playtime?

Playing games isn’t just for kiddies anymore, and why should children have all the fun? Guys – and girls, too – love to play poker, chess, darts, and other games with their friends, so add your web site and corporate logo to some of the great playthings at Gimmees, and you’ve created a terrific marketing tool that shows off your company AND is lots of fun for everyone who gets the chance to play. Remember playing table football during rainy days in the cafeteria at your elementary school? Kick it up a notch – literally! – with the Gridiron Football Flip Game, which is ideal for adults. Or for your clients who travel a lot, entertain them on long flights with the Touch Screen Travel Sudoku Game and test their brain cells with the Mind Mate. The Deluxe Poker Set is ideal for those customers who prefer to spend their off hours playing Texas Hold’em. Everyone loves to play, even the most top level executives, and each of these games makes for an excellent gift to your customers, partners, employees, and clients.

Fanning the Flames of Summer Heat

I love summer and sunshine as much as the next girl, but I’m not a big fan of heat and humidity. I wilt when the thermometer pushes beyond 87 degrees and the air feels heavier than a bowling ball pressing itself into my face. If walking to my mailbox makes me break into an intense sweat, I become very unhappy. Fortunately, I’ve recently discovered my new summertime best friend: the translucent mini fan. This handy gadget is cute, small enough to fit into my purse, and most of all, keeps me cool when the temperature heats up. I know these little fans aren’t new, but I must have been under a rock for the past century, because I never laid my hands on one until this past month. And I quickly learned what I’ve been missing – instant coolness at my fingertips during the hottest part of the day. My purse will never be without my own personal fan again. So, while I’m not a fan of the intense heat and humidity, I sure am a huge fan of the personal fan.

Ew, that Smell!

Ever return home from a night on the town with your sweetie and find a great little gift on the floor by the front door left to you courtesy of your favorite canine? This has happened to me more times than I count. And for some reason, my pooch can’t leave it on the laminate flooring, but instead on one of my cute area rugs, requiring me to clean up the poop and then either chuck the rug altogether or toss it into the washing machine. Regardless, a rank stink is left behind. No matter how much I clean up the puddle or the pile, the nasty odor remains in the form of molecules in the air. So, in order to calm my nerves and axe the bad scent, I light an aromatherapy candle in a votive frosted glass or the apple essentials incense kit and my troubles melt away, or at least they make my nose feel happier than it did a few moments earlier. Another favorite is the frost berry incense kit, which reminds me of the winter holiday season. Just remember, keep your burning candles and incense away from little ones and your animal relatives – like the one that piddled on the floor in the first place!

Dreaming of First and 10 in the Seventh Month

Although it’s only July in the thick of my favorite sports season – baseball – my husband and my son will tell you that it’s never too early to start thinking about their favorite sport of football. We may be wearing our pinstripes at the moment with our caps on our heads, praying that the boys of summer never fade, but like all sticky Augusts, they will. So, my clan is already planning what spots they will claim on the couch when the Philadelphia Eagles take to the field for the first game in September. Obviously, I am not the only football widow, so Gimmees offers magnetic football schedules for your convenience and to jazz up your fridge. Our Eagles one will be prominently displayed front and center with the kids’ paintings and handprints. If you’re not an Eagles fan, no problem. Gimmees has other team schedules for you to choose from. And since these little giveaways are magnetic, post them on any metal surface to quickly determine what time you need those wings and pizza delivered and when you should pop open a cold one. Of course, I’m still on baseball right now, but it never hurts to be prepared for the next big season.

The Rains Came, but You Stayed Dry as a Bone

A vinyl rain poncho isn’t just for kids. The next time you get stuck in a monsoon at a baseball game or find yourself soaking wet in a downpour far from home with nothing to cover you but that white t-shirt that has now become see-through, you are going to wish that you had been more prepared. Even on a hot, sun-drenched day, you just never know when a thunderstorm may blow in. I am privy to this, because I was a victim of a freak storm last week. At a major league ballpark on a sunny, 90+ degree day, I had no idea there would be a sneaky rainstorm brewing on the horizon. I had packed sunscreen and bottled water, but no umbrella and no storm protection. So, it was quite humorous to be stuck, packed like a sardine with thousands of other baseball fans on a concourse, looking at each other as if to say, “Yes, I forgot my rain gear, too.” Don’t get caught soaked. Always be prepared with your vinyl rain ponchos in adult size and rain ponchos for kids to keep the young folks dry. Another nice thing about the ponchos is that they fold up conveniently into their own drawstring bags.

Getting Organized in the Office

I have a lovely home office, but sadly, I rarely get the chance to enjoy the peacefulness of it. That’s because it’s more convenient for me to be in the family room working in the “thick of things” so to speak. My husband, however, has taken over the home office, soaking up the peace and tranquility of it while he makes phone calls, manages spreadsheets, and jots down appointments with clients. To keep his space organized, he uses a lot of products that make his life easier and help him get tasks done faster:

• A gemstone paperweight to keep those important papers from floating off the desk.
• The Value Plus mini card file for organizing dozens of client business cards.
• A Scripto slide letter opener for preventing paper cuts.
• Push stick erasers that remove pencil mistakes.
• The handy tape dispenser to patch up ripped pages.
• One multi-tray desk organizer to keep the pens that belong to the man of the house, well, organized.

Now that I think about it, I’ve made that office too well-stocked. I think it is time for me to reclaim that home office and move Hubby elsewhere.

Balloons Make the PAR-TAY!

There’s no such thing as a party until the balloons are blown up and the decorations are hung. And whether you are hosting a graduation party or are clocking time at the end of a marathon, this celebration calls for balloons. But don’t pick just any old latex balloons. Instead, take a new twist on an old favorite with 6” x 46” Banner Balloons. Your message – whether it’s Happy Birthday Aaron or FINISH LINE or Guess Who’s Turning 50? – will be vertical once you’ve inflated the balloon. But if you still love those good old-fashioned latex balloons, don’t fret. Gimmees has a nice variety of them to choose from in standard colors, crystal colors, and even metallic colors. Which means that if your scheme is kelly green for St. Patrick’s Day, blue and white for your alma mater, or red for the company’s blood drive, Gimmees has you covered with a great selection of balloons in various colors and sizes. And don’t forget to personalize your balloons with your name, logo, or web site.

Sunshine in My Eyes Just Plain Bugs Me

If there is one thing I cannot live without, it’s my sunglasses. And that’s not just because summer begins on June 21 and I’ll be at the beach a lot in the next few months. I need my sunglasses all the time – even in January. I’ve become so used to having them on my head that without them, I’m a squinting mess. It’s not such a bad thing. With the right pair, sunglasses look cool, but more importantly they shield your eyes from the bright sunlight and harsh rays. Some brands even filter out harmful UVA and UVB rays which can cause cancer. Gimmees has a large selection of sunglasses to choose from – including some fantastic pairs that will make all of the customers, employees, and partners on your list happy. In fact, sunglasses are a nice gift to hand out to your own employees. Sunglasses are inexpensive, but they are stylish and show your favorite people that you do care – about their irises and pupils, that is! And while you are placing an order for your peeps, include beach clips with it. This handy dandy doodad will keep your new shades secure against your beach chair, so you won’t have to worry about lost sunglasses.

Need to Park Your Butt? Look No Further!

Now that Memorial Day has come and gone, our thoughts turn to summer. The heat and sunshine surely will lure you outdoors to play with friends – both child-sized and adult – whether you are at home, at a local park, on the beach, or some other wonderful spot. Obviously, whether you are at the beach or not, you’re going to need a beach chair. But don’t think you can only use this sturdy seat on the sand by the sea. It will certainly come in handy at a local ballgame, your kid’s summer soccer tournament, or lounging in the backyard with a cold one in your hand. For the rest of your gang, invest in a beach buddy mat to park themselves when picnicking or watching the Fourth of July fireworks at dusk. And you know you’ll need lots of standard quality beach towels to dry yourself off after a few cooling hours in the pool or a dip in the ocean. It’s almost summertime, but with Gimmees, we help you get ready for the season. WE make it so easy for you to get everything you need right in one, convenient place.

Old Fashioned Pens and Pencils Get a Whole New Twist

I noticed a new trend in writing instruments recently and one that I’d not seen the likes before. An acquaintance had been on a trip to Arizona and returned with two cactus bent-like pencils for my kids. We all stared at them for awhile – these pencils were so adorable and cute, but my kids and I wondered why we hadn’t thought up such an unusual and fun concept ourselves. Just looking at these little cacti-induced pencils made us laugh. Our creative juices aside for now, we found that Gimmees is a provider of these novelty pencil creations. You can choose from a variety of bends pens and pencils in really neat contours including: reindeer, palm tree, ribbon awareness, graduation cap, hard hat, house, and more! Really, why would you write out your bills or let your kids do their math homework with a boring pen or pencil? These bentcils and ink bends make your writing chores way more fun! And they are great giveaways for nearly every business and company whether you are a school, a real estate agency, or a travel agent.

Everybody Say Cheese!

Life is full of surprises. There’s no telling when you’ll see something unexpected like a beautiful butterfly, a kid hitting a home run at a Little League game, that perfect sunset on the beach. Do you always have your camera ready for action? If not, then try our Clip Camera. It’s small, holds up to 20 pictures, and can be made into a webcam. Plus, it comes with a handy dandy clip to keep it attached to your hip by way of a belt loop, your key ring, or your purse. It’s even small enough to fit in your car’s middle console. Should you ever get into a fender bender, you’ll be secretly pleased with yourself for thinking ahead to snap a few shots of the damage. Once you have that great surprise shot of a beautiful rosebud opening up, your kid covered in mud from playing outside in the rain, or your son receiving his high school diploma, preserve those photographic memories in a 2.4” Desktop Digital Photo Frame. Keep them on your desk in the office or on the living room table. These are what memories are truly made of!

Have Backpack.... Will Travel

I’m of the belief that everyone should be the owner of a backpack. They aren’t just for the high school set as many people would believe. Backpacks are terrific for hauling around your books, personal items, drinks, magazines, snacks, and an infinite array of other items. The best part is that you can lug your important things with you, yet keep your hands free. Backpacks are perfect for when you are headed to the beach, a concert, a ball game, the mall, or a day out with the kids. A couple of years back when the Phillies won the World Series, I shipped my husband and our two sons off to the World Champions Parade in Philadelphia outfitted with only a backpack. But that backpack was filled with everything from juice boxes and fruit snacks to hand wipes, sunscreen, and a camera. And my hubby kept the goods on his back so that he could hold our boys’ hands and direct them through the crowds of people. Fortunately for you, Gimmees is the best place to come if you’re in the hunt for backpacks. We have everything from the upgraded Xpeditor Wheeled Computer Backpack to the more basic Daytona Backpack.

Puzzle Me This, Batman!

Isn’t there a little kid trapped inside each of us? Sometimes I wonder when childhood left me and adulthood set in. No one asked if I was ready – believe me, I wasn’t. Often, I resort back to childish ways. Fortunately, I have two kids of my own so it’s not that hard. I will, on occasion, pick up some of their toys to play with. Like the Mood Dude Rubik’s Cube. This is a new twist – quite literally – on an old favorite. A moody guy replaces the standard solid color squares. The Mind Trap 3D Puzzle is just the thing that will make me get a little goofy. My IQ might not be high enough to conquer this wooden fright fest, but it’s still fun nonetheless. If I really am in the mood to use my brain power, Perplexia Master Pyramid Puzzle is just the thing. The Puzzle Pen offers you dual functionality because it writes while also being a nice distraction in that boring Thursday morning business meeting. And don’t forget… Each of these cool little mind benders can be personalized with your corporate logo, company name, or web site.

Travel Ease from Gimmees!

Traveling by air can be such a hassle these days since there are so many rules and regulations that everyone has to follow in order to better ensure safety for all. Little bottles of shampoo and mouthwash, suitcases that only weigh a certain amount, no prescriptions unless they are in clearly marked bottles with the patient’s name. Not to mention delays due to bad weather conditions or worse. I don’t know about you, but it’s enough to make my head ache and let me consider staying closer to home for a little R&R. But if you are one of the many that must use air travel to get from one locale to another, I’ve compiled a list of goodies that will won’t exactly take all of the stress out of your trip, but will ensure a lot less hassle. Here’s what I have for you:

• Departure Luggage Scale – No more surprises at check-in.
• 12-in-1 Travel Tool – Everything from a thermometer to a world clock to a toothpick in one neat little package.
• Lavender and Vanilla Stress Relief Box – Breathe slow and deep and you’ll think you’re in a meadow.
• Magnetic 7-in-1 Travel Game Set – Sometimes Solitaire is all you need to forget that cancelled flight.

An Earthy Celebration without Food or Pesky Relatives

Thursday April 22 is Earth Day, which reminds all of us to be kind to the environment and employ conservation to preserve the Earth’s natural resources. This special 24-hour period celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Events are scheduled around the globe, and everyone is encouraged to participate, whether it’s by planting a tree in your backyard, picking up trash at your local park, or teaching your children how important it is to shut the lights off when they leave the room and turn off the faucet when brushing their teeth. Gimmees has always promoted recycling and offered an array of promotional products that are environmentally friendly. One of my favorites is the Owl 100% Recycled Deluxe Tote. Not only is it big and roomy and really terrific-looking, but it’s made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. So, not only can I look good when I’m lugging all of my junk around, but I can feel good about it, too. This tote is handy for tossing in my recycled notebook with matching paper pen as well. Being eco-conscious doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. Start out small and you’ll see how the little things can make a difference.

For that Unquenchable Thirst, Reach for Your Handy Water Bottle

This is probably going to sound really silly but one of my favorite promotional items is the simple reusable water bottle. I know, I know. With all of the fancy and exciting items out there, you’d think I could be more creative, but I am a fan of water bottles and let me tell you why. My kids are always thirsty and it’s easy for me to pack them their favorite beverages into a 20 oz bike bottle in their backpacks to get them through the day at school. For baseball and soccer practices, I opt for something bigger – like the Mood Sports Bottle with Push ‘n Pull Cap. This sucker holds 32 ounces which is perfect to get the boys through two hours of sweaty practice. I’m also trying to do a better job at keeping myself hydrated so I like the 32 oz Clear Sports Bottle, which lets me fill up and then add some fresh orange and lemon slices for taste. And for the after hours, I usually fill two 8 oz Wee Sports Drink Bottles and leave them on my sons’ night table. This eliminates a lot of “Mom, I’m thirsty” conversations at 4:00 AM.

I Really Could Use a Cold One Right About Now

Springtime isn’t just the season when the flowers begin opening and the trees happily unveil new leaves. It’s that time when everyone is anxious to be outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. Whether you are at a major league ballpark catching your favorite baseball team or at your local park watching your kids take batting practice before that first pitch, you better stay hydrated with a variety of cool drinks. And make sure you load up on cold beverages for anyone who’s exercising heavily in the warm spring sun. To make your drink carrying easier, Gimmees offers a Koozie six-pack Kooler to stash all of your water bottles, juice boxes, and snacks in one convenient place. Gotta keep drinks cold for the entire Little League team? Not to worry! The Fiesta Koozie 12 pack Kooler is ideal for packing up a large number of cold items. Those cans of cola can get really heavy after awhile, and that’s why the 18 can rolling cooler is a great item to have – it keeps the beverages frosty yet saves your back. And remember, with Gimmees, you can personalize each and every one of these coolers with your corporate logo, company phone number, and name. Nothing’s cooler than that!

Tee It Up

Now that everyone's favorite philanderer/ golf superstar is headed back to the links for next weeks Masters, America is hungry for golf again. Gimmees.com is a great place to start to gear up for your company's golf outings. This Eco-Friendly Golf Tee will make you feel good about taking care of the environment and will also display your company logo for everyone to see. A big Golf Umbrella will keep you dry when Mother Nature won't cooperate. Order some Top Flite XL Distance golf balls; with your custom designed imprint, it won't be hard to find in the scrub when you shank it off the first tee! We carry hundreds of great imprintable Golf Products that you can choose from to fit any budget. So get out in the fresh air and sunshine... FORE!

Keeping It Fresh -- Your Corporate Brand

There are so many terrific promotional items to hand out to clients, partners, customers, and employees to get your corporate brand out to the public. But you don’t have to always opt for pricey items. Sometimes a small token gift that is quite inexpensive will go a much longer way. I personally love a tin of mints because it’s something small and simple that I can keep in my pocket, purse, or a tote bag, and can easily grab after a meal when I need a little freshening. Gimmees offers various shaped tins like the mortar and pestle design slim mints, the arrow design, and the push button valet, among others to hold those minty morsels. And consider this. You’ll hand out these nifty tins of mints to clients who will pocket them. But then, the next time they are out to dinner, those handy tins will emerge with the familiar phrase, “Would anyone like a mint?” The next thing you know, your clients’ clients are getting a dose of minty fresh breath AND seeing your name and logo on that little tin. It sure beats a humongous billboard when you can get the same advertising out of a tin of mints – for a whole lot less greenbacks.

Feeling A Little Queasy?

Now that the health care reform bill has finally passed, everyone is wondering how the changes will affect them. Is my coverage going to change, will I have to pay more, et cetera, et cetera. Your best bet is taking better care of yourself, and Gimmees.com is here to help! The Sani-Mist Pocket Sanitizer is a great item to have for everyday germ control; a couple of schpritzes and you're good to go! The Seven Day Pillbox can help you keep tabs on your daily meds... don't forget your vitamins. An Express First Aid Kit will take care of minor cuts and scrapes and can help you advertise your business as well! So do the right thing and help yourself stay healthy; better yet, order a bunch of stuff from our Health, First Aid and Beauty section. Spread the word!

Must Haves for Your PC

If you have a computer – and in today’s world, who doesn’t – you need more than just a simple keyboard and mouse to keep your PC or laptop in happy shape. First of all, nothing annoys me more than a dirty, dusty monitor. But don’t just swipe a paper towel across it. You could cause serious damage to the screen! Instead, keep a world screen sweep handy for when the dust and grime accumulate. Next up, you can’t be without a computer memo holder to keep your notes and pages at eye level. Got a cute picture of your kids? Your dog? Your mom? Your boyfriend? Keep your favorite inspirational person with your computer at all times with a cyber frame. It attaches right to your monitor. Another one of my favorites is the cyber mirror. I kept this handy dandy mirror on my PC at one of my many earlier job positions to watch my back when I needed to know when my boss (who happened to make Saddam Hussein look like a kind-hearted individual) was sneaking up behind me. Just consider all of these great items “toys” for your computer. Even your laptop likes to come out to play!

Show Mother Earth How Much You Care on March 27

Earth Hour 2010 will be celebrated around the world for 60 minutes at 8:30 PM local time on March 27. This special hour is dedicated to bringing awareness to the environment and all things related to it by turning off lights, lowering the thermostat, and using as little energy as possible. My family and I enjoyed this last year and we plan to partake in it on the last Saturday in March. Last year, we shut all the lights and spent the hour taking turns reading by candlelight. We had such a great time that we actually exceeded the hour and made it to close to 90 minutes without a single complaint. My suggestions for making this hour long event fun and memorable is to light a few candle mugs, make some hot chocolate, snuggle up with a pillow stress reliever, turn off your cell phone, and enjoy 60 minutes with a few close friends or loved ones. Feel free to share your recycling tips and what ways you’ve gone green with the others. But most of all cherish these few moments without the TV, computer, and phone. Sometimes the simplest things in life – just sitting around chatting – are worth more than diamonds and gold.

Hey Blarney and Erin -- It's That Bloody Holiday Again!

St. Patrick’s Day will arrive next week, although this holiday seems to stretch much longer than the requisite 24 hours. Many like to turn the day into a weekend event so that they can enjoy the luck of the Irish for much longer than just on March 17. Are you getting green with envy at the idea of a pint of stout and a pot of gold at the end of that lucky rainbow? I suggest you wear the clover blinking light and your St. Patrick’s Day top hat to show the masses that you are celebrating shamrocks, green beer, and leprechauns. Grab your 12 ½ ounce beer mug and kick back with a pint and some good friends. The ladies can get dolled up with pardi beads with the four leaf clover medallion for a little Irish luck, too. If beer isn’t your cup of tea so to speak, take out your Irish coffee mug for a hot beverage. Just make sure you spike it with whiskey to make it Irish, of course. The good thing to know about March 17 is that you don’t have to have Irish blood in your veins to celebrate St. Patrick. The Irishmen and women, too, will welcome you no matter what your pedigree.

The Fields Are Teaming Once Again... with Teams

March has left February in the dust so in the next few weeks countless parents will be shivering in their cars or huddled together on icy cold bleachers while their offspring take to the fields to play an array of sports from baseball to soccer to softball. Sure, spring isn’t far away and the kids suited up in pinstripes and cleats are signs that milder temperatures and more hours of daylight will soon join us like a long lost friend. I’ll be with the likes of you parents as well, so to make my (and your) life easier, I’ve compiled a list of must-haves to survive this time of transition before the real games of spring begin:

· Stadium Cushion to protect my rump from those wicked cold bleachers.
· Evolve 16 oz Roadster Mug for that massive amount of caffeine I’ll need to survive soccer practice – from my car.
· Leather Look Notebook with Calculator and Pen so that I can jot down practice schedules and which date I’m the snack mom.
· Yoga 19” Duffel Bag that carries all of my stuff along with the kids’ junk, too.
· Sports Injury First Aid Kit to keep me prepared just in case someone falls down and skins a knee.

Where's the Best Beach?

I know it's only March, but it's time again to vote for New Jersey's Best Beaches. Go to njtoptenbeaches.org to put your two cents in for the best strand in the wonderful Garden State. And then go to gimmees.com to gear up for the sun and the sand... after all, spring's only three weeks away! Grab some Beach Totes to load up all of your towels and sunblock, and some Beach Balls for the kids. A Six Pack Kooler will keep all of your liquid refreshments cold, while a personalized Flyer will keep Dad busy. After the insanely snowy winter we've had in our area, just thinking of the beach and boardwalk is bound to bring some joy to those of us lacking in the sun department. Surfs up... and vote for Ocean City!

Snuggle Up with this Product

I am a big fan of the blanket. There are blankets all over my house – several are on my family room couch alone. My kids each have numerous blankets in their beds. Heck, we even have a few blankets stowed away in our finished basement where the pool table and all of the toys are. Blankets are the best, especially since I tend to sneakily turn down the thermostat each morning after everyone is up and dressed. So, when someone feels chilly, I toss them a blanket. Here’s a great one to add to your repertoire: a roll up blanket. This nifty blankie is warm and made of fleece so it’s soft to the touch. But it rolls up neatly within itself to hide away in the top of a closet or in the trunk of your car. And it has a little handle attached which makes it convenient to bring along to those chilly early spring baseball games or to snuggle with your significant other when you are away from home. Is it a blanket? Then, I love it! And you will, too.

Earth Day Is Every Day!

Earth Day is April 22, but why not celebrate it every day? If you've got an event or a party to outfit, check out some of the Green promotional items at Gimmees.com. Order a bunch of Eco Pencils for your kids' school activities, or get some Biodegradable Golf Tees for the office's annual golf outing. The Evolve Water Bottle is a great idea for your any giveaway, and it makes you feel great because it's good for the planet. Just surf on over to our Eco-Friendly Products page to find hundreds of items that won't add to that dreaded carbon footprint. So remember, even though April 22 is a great day already (it's this author's birthday, after all!), we need to take care of this big blue marble year round....do your part!

The Magic that Comes Once Every Four Years

These cold February nights have me glued to my TV so that I don’t miss a moment of the sports action at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Curling, anyone? Seriously, I’m intent to just sit on my duff while these well-toned athletes from the world over duke it out in the mountains and on the ice. I’ve got my 22 inch #1 foam hand to wave as Apolo Anton Ohno glides the ice in the hopes of becoming the most decorated Winter Olympian in US history. My sons will toot their sports horns in support of Bode Miller and his skis. And what would the Olympics be without a few USA star clappers to go along with the cheers of excitement for the red, white and blue? Sometimes though, all of that snow in British Columbia can make me shiver – even though I’m an entire nation and various time zones away. So, I’ll fill my 17 ounce bright color Kona mug with hot chocolate and marshmallows, sit back, and relax as the pomp and circumstance continues. The Olympics are a treat that only blesses us once every four years. I have to make this time count.

Is It That Time Already?

How time flies when you've got about 3 feet of snow on your front lawn! Believe it or not, baseball's spring training begins next week! Seems like just yesterday we were cursing the dreaded Yankees as they marched to their 27th World Series title by defeating our beloved Phillies. We'll get 'em this year, though. This is a great time to get prepared for the season with some all too necessary items to enhance your baseball experience. Going to the park? Get some cool Neon Sunglasses for the crew to show your solidarity and protect your eyes at the same time. This Picnic Kit will work great for tailgating or Sunday cookouts. For those inevitable rain delays, grab a few Folding Umbrellas to battle the elements. Hardcore fans can go straight to our Cheering & Team Spirit section to fulfill all their needs. Play ball!

Pack My Bag... I Need to See the Sun

It’s always about this time of the year – smack dab right in the middle of winter – when I begin dreaming about warm, tropical places. A lazy, sun-drenched beach with white sand and sailboats drifting by is in my thoughts while I imagine myself draped across a lounge chair reading the latest bestseller. Is that grilled lobster I’m smelling? The winter blues have me so bummed that I’m tempted to call a travel agent and book myself a one-way ticket to the Bahamas each February. But then, I remember how not fun it is to prepare for that big vacation. Packing for a trip can be so stressful, especially with all of the travel regulations now in place. That’s why the Whatever Bottle Travel Set is truly a lifesaver. I don’t have to measure out my shampoo because the bottles are the perfect size for traveling and they meet Transportation Security Administration rules. All of the thinking is done for me. I love these bottles for that reason! No thought on my part at all and I still get to use my own products while I’m away on vacay. And although a trip to the Caribbean isn’t in my budget this year, I’ll keep this travel set handy just in case I decide I’m leaving the States for good and heading down to that beach to spend my days working as a hired hand on a catamaran.

Here We Go Again

Once again, we are at the brink of the abyss: the latest 'Snowstorm of the Century' is moving towards Gimmeesville and not a single citizen is prepared. The supermarket is jammed and the roads are clogged as everyone and his mother skitters about in search of blizzard necessities. The savvy consumer would have ordered a bunch of Polar Ice Scrapers or the multi purpose Storm Scraper with Brush to ease the burden of the daily commute. And while you're going stir crazy indoors, log on and order some St. Patrick's Day stuff for your fellow lovers of the green.

And The Oscar Goes To.....

Who will the big winners be this year? Will it be Avatar or The Hurt Locker? My personal man-crush George Clooney or old fave Jeff Bridges? Perennial nominee Meryl Streep or upstart Sandra Bullock? Whatever the category, one thing is certain: the winner will treasure that golden statue forever. Reward your favorite employee or your star shooting guard with the classy Orbit Award or a personalized photo frame. They will treasure it forever and it will make you, as well as your wallet, feel better to boot. So while you're mulling over your own personal Oscar selections, remember the people that make your life a little bit better with one of Gimmees.com's selection of gifts and awards. Guess you can tell by the picture who this author is pulling for!

I'll Never Remember Your Name, but Don't Be Offended

Hello, I’m Karen. And you are? I don’t know about you, but I am not good with names. Oh sure, I’m great with the people I’ve worked with, been friends with for years, and am related to. But if I meet you at a party or another gathering, don’t be offended if I can’t remember your name. I’m so busy talking with you and learning about you that I forget the thing that is probably most important in your life. That’s why I’m a big fan of the lanyard. I know, I know. The lanyard isn’t the actual name tag, but it holds the name tag in a cool spot – much better than those ridiculous peel-and-toss “My Name Is” tags that everyone sticks on their chests to the right of the heart. And at Gimmees, we offer variety to fit your needs like the ½ inch breakaway lanyard or the ½ inch lanyard with key ring. So, the next time you are traveling the tradeshow circuit, make sure you have your badge and lanyard visible. I might just step up to your table to say hello, but don’t expect me to remember your name – you know I’m not good with those things!

Oh, The Madness!

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the NCAA basketball season is in full swing. That can only mean one thing: March Madness is on the horizon! Our hardwood heroes are deep into their conference schedules, but there is plenty of time to order your cheering gear for the Tournament. How about a megaphone to help you holler to your heart's content for your favorite hoops team? Or maybe a #1 foamhand to wave maniacally, which will undoubtedly anger the opposition's fans. So many great products to choose from that you can have personalized with your alma mater's colors and logo! So whether you're a Jayhawk, a Tarheel or a Blue Devil, you can find what you need for the big game. Go Owls!