Every year it is the same. What to get people. I like to give stuff that is simple, economical, and has a viable function. I bought one of these a few years ago and lost it. I am going to pick up a few of them, and gift some out too.
They are great at the office, make a stew or small pot roast and let the whole office salivate! It also plugs into most little inverters in your car, it is only 100 WATTS. Cook on long drives, or warm up food.

http://www.target.com/p/crock-pot-2-qt-slow-cooker-scr200/-/A-16799398?lnk=search