For those who love the look of tropical fish tanks but are short on space, comes the AuquaVista500, a 6.6 gallon aquarium that hangs flat on the wall like a piece of art. The aquarium is designed to house freshwater tropical fish and is a completely self-sustaining system that comes pre-assembled for the utmost convenience.
Computer-controlled technology maintains the balance within the tank, so all you have to do is add water and fish. The AquaVista500 comes with 24 interchangeable frames, so you can chose the one that looks best in your room.
You can also pick from eight 3-D backgrounds to enhance the look of the tank. This gift is perfect for that fish-lover who just doesn't have the time or space to deal with a normal aquarium.
Available for $299.99 at www.aquavistainc.com .
PERSONAL BLENDER
This compact, lightweight single-serving blender is the easiest way to make smoothies, sauces, soups and salsas at home. Its small size makes it ideal for a dorm room setting.
The blender works great with fresh fruits and vegetables, but can also handle the frozen varieties, allowing smoothie-making to become incredibly simple. The single-serving container is convenient because there's no need to find a place for leftovers in your already crowded mini-fridge.
Available in two different models for $59.99 and $79.99 at www.personalblender.com .
SPOONFED ART
These unique pieces of jewelry would make a great gift for that quirky person on your list. Fashioned using the base of a spoon, these pendants are made my trapping flowers, buttons, shells and small objects in the spoon with liquid resin.
The result is a distinctive piece of art that can be worn as a necklace, a pin or however else you choose. Los Angeles-based designed Karin Collins started designing these pieces in 2004 and her business has expanded tremendously since.
Prices vary; available at www.spoonfedart.com .
ORNAMENTS TO REMEMBER
It's always fun to stock up on new ornaments to decorate your tree with, and these are not only beautiful – they go toward a good cause. All proceeds from the sale of Ornaments to Remember go to The Learning Community, an organization dedicated to helping schools and parents work together on behalf on children. Ornaments to Remember features both traditional and wacky pieces, from pets to pineapples and sushi to sombreros.
Prices vary; available at www.ornaments2remember.com .