Johnaberdeen's Blog

'Tis the season to talk about Christmas gifts. I've always been the guy who buys people very practical, useful gifts. It's kind of funny...the reactions I get sometimes. For whatever reason, I think people in general prefer novelty "wants" rather than actual needs that can financially be met by someone else.

I'm not talking about getting someone toilet paper or deodorant for Christmas or anything, but something a little more "gift" and a little less "grocery store".  For example, one of my favorite Christmas gifts in my entire life was when my friend bought me these big, heavy hiking/outdoors boots.  When people think about their favorite Christmas gift, they usually answer with a piece of jewelry, clothing or an electronic item like a TV, video game console or computer.  I still have those boots to this day, because my feet haven't grown much since I've been 17 or so.  I'll bet that you don't have the Playstation, TV or Compaq that you got 15 years ago.  

In honor of my useful gift mantra, I got my secret Santa at work (a middle aged male) a Ka-Bar knife and a pair of Under Armour gloves .  This may be less flashy than the standard bottle of expensive liquor or the dress shirt from some high end shop, but I really think he appreciated the gifts.  Those gloves will last him quite a while, and he'll have that knife for the rest of his life barring something catastrophic.  Hopefully he gets the same out of these gifts as I did from my boots many years ago. 

Whenever I get the chance, I always try to thank the people that protect my family, friends, country and myself.  People like policemen and women, firefighters and military personnel should be gratuitously thanked by all of us.  This Christmas, these people will either be away from their family, on duty or on call.  While we are warm, happy and opening presents, there are people in BlackHawk tactical gear weilding guns and Ka-Bar knives to protect our freedomThe sacrifices they make for the people of this country is something that none of us should take for granted.

There are some great examples of people giving back to these modern heroes.  While watching the latest UFC Fight Night dedicated to the troops, MMA fans raised $4 million dollars for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).  In addition, I've seen several tobacco websites offering free shipping and cigar gift sets to send to the military overseas so they can celebrate the holidays.

I love seeing this type of support for these people who really deserve it.  We have really been taking care of a military in times where their presence and duties have been questioned.  I only hope we do the same for our police officers and firefighters.  Keeo up your support over the holiday.

One trend that I've never really understood is an "exotic pet". I can understand that people want to be different, but I think a unique haircut or some custom clothes would be a better investment. I'm a pretty old fashioned guy who thinks the best kind of pets are dogs, cats and things of that nature. I don't think I'd ever be able to have a snake or a bird as a pet. 

Exotic animals like certain types of iguanas, snakes, fish, dragons and tarantulas seem like kind of an odd investment to me. First off, since these animals are rare and exotic, they are going to be expensive. Also, these animals are going to need specialist medical assistance outside of what a normal veterinarian is capable of.

Thinking about this kind of pet information and pet care information is absolutely necessary.  Although it may sound like a cool idea to have a unique pet, the high cost and inconvenience needs to be factored in as well.  If exotic animals are a hobby and interest of yours and you have the time and income to care for them properly, then I wish you the best with your neat pet.  If you don't fit into this category, get a cat or dog.  Who wants a companion you can't pet or play with?

I remember 10-15 years ago, people were talking about shopping online the same way they were talking about flying cars and robots. Well, it looks as if that day has come. Those of us who enjoy going out to our favorite retail franchises and electronics stores on Black Friday now have "Cyber Monday" to enjoy as well. You know something has hit the big time when it has it's own day and nickname.

I've been an avid online shopper for a few years now.  I've bought everything from CDs and DVDs to clothing and tobacco online.  The ease and convenience of online shopping has made it hard to resist.  In addition, it is becoming easier and safer to use a credit cards or other payment options online.  There are a few drawbacks of online shopping, though.

When buying clothing, things could get a little tricky.  No e-fitting rooms yet!  In addition, you have to wait for delivery and pay for shipping.  The best part about shopping this holiday season was the fact that shipping charges were almost non-existent.  While I still like to buy franchise and brick and mortar, shopping online has really become hard to refuse.

The online shopping boom kind of makes me wonder what could be next.  Pretty soon, we're going to have online fitting rooms!

I'm happy that sandwich franchises like Subway and Quiznos are expanding and growing.  I've never been one for fast food, and these homemade sandwiches and salads are a good alternative to greasy burgers and chicken nuggets.  With America becoming more health conscious, I wouldn't be surprised to see Subway overtake McDonald's and Burger King in popularity.  Right now, if I had to buy a franchise or start a business, a Subway would be the way I'd go.

If you compare these sandwich franchises with fast food burger joints, the sandwich franchises have a good amount of pros.  You can get a more homemade meal at places like Subway and Quiznos.  I'm not going to go as far as to say things at these hoagie shops aren't processed because I know the lunch meat and chicken is, but in general these sandwiches are better for you.  A cold cut trio on wheat bread is a lot healthier than a Whopper or Big Mac with fries.

I don't think I'm alone in my taste here.  I really do think you are going to see these shops come to prominence over our childhood burger joints.  I personally wouldn't mind seeing a Subway or Quiznos in every mall and in every town.  You can get a healthy, filling, delicious meal for your whole family that you won't feel guilty about...how can I have a problem with that?