I think I started something new. From some of the emails I received after last week’s article I found that some of you would like me to run a series regarding possible techie Christmas gifts. As always, thank you for the emails and ideas. I enjoy them all. Since the 25th is one week from today, this will be short. If you appreciate this let me know before next year and it could last for a few more weeks with more detail.
So here we go with the Christmas Gift Review. First, from last week were smart watches and specifically Fitbit Watches. Next, would be Bluetooth earbuds or headsets, whichever would suit the person’s needs. I have a set of SoundPEATS True Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Stereo TWS Bluetooth Wireless Earphones. I am not an audiophile, but for me, they have excellent sound, fit well and do not fall out of my ears. For you old folks out there they fit fine and work well with hearing aids. (Of course, I have no personal experience.) Another really neat thing is that you charge the case they are stored in. Therefore, the earbuds are charged when I put them back in the case, So far, I have used the earbuds over 40 hours and have only charged the case once when I received them. They cost less than $50 – Black Friday much less than that.
There are many other brands and designs (like full headsets) with prices going up to over $400.
Next, a different sort of present you may have never thought of…a pencil. A pencil you say? Yes, I did. Many techies like me, like pencils. However, not your boring wooden pencils from school days. I am talking about mechanical pencils of which I have a few and a few of my friends also use them. I have one that I have had for over 20 years and it still writes to perfection. Also, that one is no longer available.
But I have a new recommendation that I received as a gift. It is called Pentel Sharp Kerry Mechanical Pencil. They are available in different colors and multiple lead sizes. It writes like most all well-made mechanical pencils, like a dream. They write so well that I am getting one for one of my favorite people in the world; my daughter as she pursues her dental career. Do not let her know I told you. There are also many brands and designs available. I recommend this one at $16-$26 depending on where you find them. 
The last on my list for this year is a thumb drive. There are many different types of thumb drives with varying storage sizes and designs. Look below at a Tardis, Cassette Tape and even a Thumb shaped thumb drive. Prices range from a few dollars to $200+. I would suggest an affordable 128 GB, normal looking one you can get from $15 to $25.
All of these are available in the local area and online; however, I do not know if I would try to get them online as the day is almost here.
I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I will see you here in January 2019.
