10 Great Stocking Stuffers for the Family

It's that time of year again. Time to pick up those stocking stuffers that require a little thought but not a lot of money. These stocking stuffers are for the whole family. Yes, that includes the furry companions - dogs and cats - as well. Check out 10 great stocking stuffers to get the entire family this holiday.

Stocking Stuffers for Dad

Right off the top of your head you are probably thinking a tie or watch. Save those ideas for his birthday or Father's Day. Thinking about a practical gift is the right move. Two things Dad probably is not purchasing for himself that he more than likely needs: underwear and socks. He probably has a drawer full of basic briefs, boxers and socks. However, he probably does not have enough dress socks or warm, knit boxers. Consider these two stocking stuffers for Dad:

1. Alexander Julian Argyle Dress Socks (3pk), $16.00 at JCPenney
2. Merona Men's Cotton Jersey Knit Boxer - Navy/Gray, $5.99 at Target

Stocking Stuffers for Mom

Mom may be a little harder to find a gift for. Handbags and shoes - unless they are slippers -- are out of the question. So you really need to pay attention to what she likes and what she may be willing to try. One thing every woman should own is an attractive scarf. Tie that stocking stuffer in with a pair of statement earrings and you have a winner. Check these great stocking stuffers out for Mom:

1. Women's Scarf, Velvet Burnout Le Fleur, $30.00 at JCPenney
2. Art Deco Earrings, $9.99 at AVON

Stocking Stuffers for Girls

Whether they are still in elementary school or in high school, most girls like things that are pretty or things that will make them look pretty. Accessories are the way to go with little girls this holiday. For the bigger girls, let's look for something knitted. Consider these stocking stuffers for girls:

1. Belle Du Jour Dress, Short Sleeve Military Stripe Sweater, $38.00 at Macy's
2. Jumping Beans Butterfly Knit Hat Set-Girls, $38.00 at Kohl's

Stocking Stuffers for Boys

Little boys and big boys like toys. However, as they get older their choice of toys becomes a little more sophisticated. What's big this year for boys is Transformers. For the little ones you can either go with an actual Transformer toy or apparel. The bigger ones opt for games, movies and other Transformer-tech merchandise. Consider one of these options for your Transformer fan:

1. Pre-order: Transformers Trilogy $29.99 (before 12/13/11 release) to $40.99 (12/13/11 and after) at Amazon.com
2. Transformers: Dark of the Moon for Nintendo DS, $29.95 at Walmart

Stocking Stuffers for Dogs and Cats

Family gift giving is not complete without something for the family dog or cat. While a lot of families like to dress their furry buddies in clothes, think of something the pet may actually enjoy. From my experience you can't go wrong with a food treat or toy:

1. KONG Holiday Reindeer, Snowman or Santa Tugger Knot, $4.99 at PetSmart
2. Grreat Choice Faux Fur Mouse w/Tail (12 pk), $7.99 at PetSmart

These 10 holiday stocking stuffers for the family make great gifts. The best part is they are under $50.00. Don't be nervous about some of the apparel items, you can roll them and insert them into the stocking. For box sets you can give the box to them later and place each individual item in the stocking. Happy Shopping!

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