I deserve something nice for not being naughty

Dear PropellerHeads: I have been a saint this year and am expecting some great gifts this holiday. Any recommendations for my wish list?

A: It's great to finally see that someone is more nice than naughty. So, let's jump into the Ask The PropellerHeads 2014 Holiday gift list.

We'll cover some of the coolest items we have found or coveted this year. Before you buy, you might want to search online for "buying guides" for these products. We would also recommend dropping by a Best Buy, hhgregg, or similar store nearby to check them out. Sometimes you just need to see and touch a gadget before you can really make a decision. Note: All prices are approximate based on recent price checks.

This year, wearable tech is all the rage. The Samsung Gear set the standard a while back, but there are many nice choices to consider now. These wristwatch-type devices communicate with your smartphone. Some of the watches are (to say the least) a bit bulky, with a certain nerd-appeal, but you may want to shop based on personal style too. Some products have minimal displays and are basically notification devices and phone (calling) extenders. Others are colorful micro-tablets letting your run quite a bit on such a small platform. Our favorite stocking stuffers are the Android-based Pebble Steel ($200), the Moto360 ($250) and the Apple Watch ($350).

Last year we recommended you take better care of yourself by letting the Fitbit watch your walking, workouts, sleeping, and other activities. We are still very fond of it, but you should also consider the Jawbone UP24 ($125) and the Garmin Vivofit ($170).

If you are considering a laptop, as usual, you have lots of choices. If you plan to run Windows, this year might be the time to consider the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 ($800). It's a bit of a tablet-laptop blend that might work well for you.

If you have been really good, maybe there is a drone hovering in your future. For us, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ ($1300) beats them all. This awesome craft will satisfy the geek in anyone and spook the FAA as a bonus. Remember to pick up a few extra props and battery.

Last Christmas, I got a gift of Coin ($100). After several well-publicized delays, current plans are for a spring 2015 launch. Might just be the time for you to throw away your credit cards and carry Coin, instead.

So, I know this article is all about me. But that means it's also about my dog. I really like GoPro-fetch ($60) for your active, movie-taking canine. If you need to leave your best friend at home during the day, consider Petcube ($200) so you can check in from time to time and watch your four legged loved one.

Last year we talked about Roku and Chromecast. The ability to take your laptop, tablet, or phone screen and display it on your big screen TV seems like a natural. I bought one of each. Amazon's Fire TV Stick ($39) is a new entry that is worthy of a look. I won't sleep until I complete my collection.

Good luck this holiday and remember the gift you give is always better than the one you receive. So consider helping a cause greater than you. Take a look at MyPlanG.com, Kickstarter.com, Wikipedia.org, or Change.org to get inspired and help.

Happy Chanu-chrismakwanzakah!

When the PropellerHeads at Data Directions aren't busy with their IT projects, they love to answer questions on business or consumer technology. Email them to questions@askthepropellerheads.com or contact us at Data Directions Inc., 8510 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23116. Visit our website at www.askthepropreellerheads.com.