"Fun"ctional gifts

I've been doing some research online for this year's gift giving season and came across some items that put the "fun" in "functional" (wow, I really did write that didn't I). These would be great gift ideas for a certain husband that may or may not be seeking assistance while he's looking for Christmas gifts...I'm just saying...

I'm not always good at hiding what I feel as it tends to get written all over my face. So I figured why not wear what I feel too. I LOVE BBQ! And thanks to this cute shirt from CafePress, I can tell everyone.

I actually think these insulated mugs from West Elm are pretty cute. A lid to keep the heat in but a silicone band to keep from burning myself - how practical! Plus, the reindeer looks a bit like a funny little character raising its arms and cheering. And why shouldn't it cheer, it's so darn adorable.

I guess this one is for the kid in me who also likes to create pretty things but is not always motivated to do so. This fun coloring book from Amazon looks like just the cure for those days I'm feeling artistically inclined but not creatively inspired.

One of the best gifts I could receive is feeling organized. I realize a feeling is hard to wrap up and stick under the tree so I'll stick to the tools that help me feel organized, and the prettier the better. I usually keep all appointments in my iPhone as well as on a wall calendar in my office but I never turn down just one more way of keeping my life in check. Kate Spade seems to have the answer with this cute desktop calendar. In addition to the usual form and function of a calendar like this, there are also 12-months of spirited suggestions designed to surprise, delight and inspire. I wouldn't mind being surprised, delighted and inspired in 2011, especially if I don't get that coloring book.