Write something worth reading: Dan's List '05

This may not be the most appropriate place to post my Christmas list but whatever. My GC webspace is set to evaporate in not too long so I have to start looking into alternatives. Also, come to think of it, this list may be too late to do anyone any good.

If things could bring happiness these would get me closer to it:

Gadgets

I could use a laptop but I'm waiting for the new iBooks and PowerBooks to come out in Q1 of '06 before I make a decision. Depending on the specs -- and my funds at the time -- I may jump ship on Apple and go with Lenovo (IBM) or Acer.

Newegg, my favorite online retailer, actually has a 'Stocking Stuffer' section of their website. While I'm not entirely sure how a 42" plasma screen would fit in a stocking they include it in their listing of desireable things.
The MAKE Blog has a Christmas list with a bunch of cool stuff on it. I'll pass on the Griffin RocketFM though. I prefer cables for my audio.

Garage Stuff

I like tools. I love DeWalt chordless tools (18V XRP) as well as Kobalt and Craftsman mechanics tools.
I need a 3/8" drive 6-point metric socket set like this one or this one before I ruin something with my 12-point ones.
I could use a half inch breaker bar and an extension but this whole accessory set would be righteous.

I sold my motorcycle helmet along with my motorcycle. I now need a new one of each. I don't expect anyone to buy me a Honda 599 but a helmet would be nice and the HJC SyMax fits the bill. Black size L please.

Clothes

I don't exactly have a refined sense of style but I do find most things from Travel Smith, Prana, or SCOTTeVEST appealing.
Like this blazer. (Did I just ask for a blazer?)(40")
This hat, which is much like the hat I wore for 80% of my waking hours from 2001-2003.
A beanie like this one.
These lounge pants which have all kinds of pockets for stashing gadgets and are, as a reviewer pointed out, as comfortable as sweat pants look much classier.(M, black)
A few tuff neck t-shirts -- because I could always use more black t-shirts.(M)
And some Carhartt work socks. Now that I have propper work boots all those ankle length socks I have no longer have what it takes to keep my feet happy. You can also get them at Tractor Supply.

Music

Arvo Part: Kanon Pokajanen I have heard only bits and pieces of this acclaimed work and would much like to add it to my library.
Tavener: Lamentations & Praises This album by Chanticleer is easily good enough to justify me owning a propper copy.
The Shure E2c 'noise isolating' earbuds are quite nice. I tried out a friend's pair and they do what they're supposed to -- quite well.
I had thought that I would make some speakers sometime but that doesn't seem to be happening. In the mean time I would love to have the Logitech Z-5500 5.1 system in my room.
While the 5th generation iPod seems great at first glance the battery life and video resolution are actually quite unimpressive. I'll wait for 6th generation thank you.