Christmas is a joyous time of year, and even though it's not supposed to be all about the gifts you give and receive, many people receive a lot of pleasure by giving wonderful gifst during this time.

However, with the current economic conditions, many people are cutting back on their Christmas expenditure. Luckily, desptie cutting back, you don't have to skimp on the quality of items you give; eBay has millions of products that are simply wonderful, and will make the gift receiver very happy.

Our pets are an important part of the family and many people therefore love to give their pets wonderful gifts; whether it's a new christmas outfit, a cool toy, or a new bed, the pet is sure to love it and continue to be devoted to its owner.

Just doing a quick search comes up with many wonderful items:

• Pet Clothes - keep your pet warm on those cold winter nights, or simply have the coolest pets on the street.
• Pet Toys - keep your dog happy with some fun toys; help them stay fitter with toys that make them run and play.
• Pet Beds - let your pet sleep in peace; a well rested pet is a pleasure to have!

The husband or boyfriend (brother or father) is perhaps the hardest 'animal' to please when buying Christmas gifts. Should you buy him a sweater? A CD? something for the car?

Why not be imaginative and go for something he would never think to buy on his own:

• Sports Memorabilia - by him a signed Jeter t-shirt! Men just love to show off sports memorabilia - especially if it's autographed by the latest star.
• Juke Box - let him play some of those nostalgic old classics. See if he still has those 'dance moves' in him.
• Pool Table - imagine the fun you could have in your basement. This is for him, but is sure to please the whole family.
• Cool Gadgets - what man doesn't like cool gadgets! Men love to play with gadgets, and at work they are almost a badge of honor!

They say that "Diamonds are a girls best friend" and generally you can't go wrong when you give a lady a Diamond ring or necklace. If your lady doesn't like Diamonds? This is where it gets difficult; men simply have no idea what to buy! Here are a few ideas:

• Spa and Body Kit - women love to luxuriate in style; if you can't send her to a spa, at least let her create her own sanctuary.
• Other unique jewelry - she may not like diamonds, but she's sure to love a unique piece of jewelry. Women love to talk about jewelry, and your sure to gain brownie points if your lady has something special.
• Designer Skin for Cellphone - women just like their pinkified bling! While it serves no purpose (in a man's eye) women somehow love to 'protect' their cell phones in style.
• Art - women tend to love to look at art! Find out the type of art your wife loves, and then see if you can buy an original - if you can't afford an original, then a print will suffice.

Well Christmas is supposed to be about the kids isn't it? Kids are also very hard to please; you have to know the latest trends and try and get them something that every one else wants! It's not easy, and can get really expensive. Here are some ideas:

• Latest sneakers - kids love to show of the latest and greatest sneakers. It'll also encourage them to get outside away from the games consoles.
• Latest video games - kids love video games, especially if it's the latest one out. If they are the only ones to get the game, then they'll be the most popular kids in town.
• iPod - what's not to like about an iPod or mp3 player? The iPod is the coolest, but there are some cheaper alternatives that are just as good.
• Cool bikes - you can never go wrong with a new bike. This is a great way to get your kids outside and exersizing.

 Parents are notoriously hard to buy for and in the past I've resorted to buying gift certificates; however this is a little cold and shows a lack of thought. With the change that seems to be going on in the older generation, there are a few cool gifts that you can get them:

• Skiis - after movies like the Bucket List, a lot more parents and grand parents are becoming adventureous.
• Video Games - with Nintendo (Wii and DS) bringing out games more oriented towards the family, a lot of older people are starting to play video games.
• Wine / Beer making kits - this is a fun way to involve both parents.
• Romantic Getaways - sending your parents for a romantic weekend away is sure to please.