I am a stereotypical journalist and I work best under the pressure of a deadline. This not only applies to my writing but it creeps into other areas of my life as well, namely shopping for gifts around the holidays.

I’ll admit to running through the mall, sweating in my down-filled winter jacket, ten minutes before the close on Christmas Eve because a flawless gift idea finally popped into my head. And while this behaviour is frenzied and unladylike, I always finish my shopping with the perfect gift for my friends and family (don't tell them!). As if buying for my family isn't stressful enough, this year brings a new challenge as I add “boss” to my list of gifts to buy.

Since my mother doesn’t need another candle, nor my boss another mug, I am trying a generational approach to gift giving: I bought something for the techie in everyone.

While lost in a sea of grand-scale electronics stores, I managed to stumble upon the Sony Style Store (which I now refer to as Mecca). I was nervous going in, overwhelmed by the vast expanse of screens and gadgets, but then I made eye contact with sales associate Marcela (now referred to as Angel) who helped me analyze my list of naughty and nice, and began picking out gifts for my family.

First on my list: the book enthusiast. Angel showed me the eBook Reader Pocket Edition to save on heavy lifting and space issues created by mounds of paperbacks and hardcovers. The Reader can hold up to 500 books at a time, is lightweight, charges by USB cable, and, most importantly, fits in a purse (Eureka!). The device supports multiple file formats including PDF, offering access to many books in an assortment of languages, including those from Sony’s own eBook Store and over a half million free public domain titles from Google.

My second gift recipient is addicted to her computer. And since separating her from what she deems her “true love” is about as easy as understanding macroeconomics, I decided to get her a new, more portability-friendly boyfriend. Since looks are clearly the most important attribute in a mate, the Vaio P Pocket-Style PC is sure to tickle anyone’s fancy. With a matching leather clutch that is oh-so-cute, this mini-mate appeals to my friend’s lust for remaining connected.

Up next on my “nice” column is someone who is very photo-savvy. I followed Angel as she floated over to the new DSC-TX1 Cyber-shot camera and Party Shot intelligent dock. This perfectly-paired set can be left alone on a table at a party or gathering, and using its own revolutionary face and smile detection abilities, will capture pictures automatically. With the added benefits of panning, tilting, and zooming, Ms. Photo is guaranteed amazing images she could never capture on her own.

Last, but certainly not least, is my boss. I mentioned how I’d prefer to move up in the world by getting an awesome gift and Angel knew what would undoubtedly ensure my next promotion. The Sony touchscreen desktop computer, with built-in Blu Ray player – hello corner office – is a state-of-the-art take on the traditional PC. With a hi-def screen and its unique ability to allow the user to command programs with the simple application of an index finger, I see why my boss fell in love with it.

After paying the bill (sorry Visa) and taking a deep breath of relief, I gave Angel a hug and my undying gratitude. Now I get to spend the two weeks before Christmas making my own wish-list for Santa.