Shopping slackers can find plenty of great reality TV gifts

Like many, I promise myself in October that I’ll start Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving. I even made it out this year for the dreaded Black Friday shopping experience only to wait in long lines in the cold without finding several of the items I was looking for.

Now, just days before Santa’s arrival, I’m no closer to being finished with my shopping.

For those of you in the same boat, don’t worry. There’s still time to pick up some of this season’s hottest gifts for the reality TV fans in your life.

A few of my favorites include:

. The “Deal or No Deal” DVD at-home game. It’s $19.99 at the NBC Universal online store and you can play solo or with friends. Definitely a deal.

. During my gift-finding quest, I also was surprised to learn that you now can purchase some of the attire and jewelry worn by the “Deal or No Deal” case girls.

. Speaking of apparel and accessories, I don’t know any gal who would turn down the duds and sparklies worn by the women on Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Orange County.” But be prepared to break out the plastic. The Housewives aren’t afraid to spend money.

. Need something for the manly man in your life? “Dog the Bounty Hunter” has plenty of paraphernalia for sale (and no, not the kind he confiscates from criminals). At www.shopdogthebountyhunter.com you’ll find Dog shirts for $25 and hats for $20.

. If it’s the biker boy you’re shopping for, don’t forget about the staff of Orange County Choppers. These guys know how to make a buck off their brand and their official Web site offers plenty of merchandise that will fit just about anybody’s price range, such as clothing, accessories and even gift cards. You’ll also get a free autographed OCC book if you spend $125 or more, so buy something for yourself while you’re there.

As for me, I’m still waiting for Santa to bring my pink “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” tool belt (hint, hint). I hope it makes it in time for the Jan. 6 premiere of the episode shot right here in Milbridge. If not, I might have to splurge and treat myself.