It might not seem like the most personal present, but you can't argue with the ease of gift cards--all it takes is a trip to just about any corner store. You can throw a buddy some iTunes bucks or points toward a game console's online store (at this point a ton of great games lurk on Xbox Live, Sony's PSN Store, and Nintendo's WiiWare channel). Those in a hurry can purchase and print up a gift certificate at places such as Amazon.com, or give the gift of Netflix subscriptions.

If you've got time to run out to either Target or Best Buy, you can grab the most surreal gift cards around--. They are technically gifts unto themselves!

Or, for all you cheapskates out there, you can do what I do: Hand-draw a coupon good for a year's worth of tech support for the in-laws. Hey, you're gonna wind up doing it, anyhow.

Make a Mix CD

The art of making a mix tape isn't quite lost to the ages. Instead of a funky plastic magnetic cassette, you have a bright, shiny disc on which you can put your pal's favorite songs. I suggest going to your favorite source for and shop to your heart's content. After loading up the disc with tunage, it's time for the finishing touches. For example, why not print an image on top of your disc? It not only personalizes the gift a little more, it makes your friend feel like you spent a little more on this gift than just a couple of minutes before heading out the door.