Katdish's Holiday Gift Guide (Part 4)

I am so visibly shaken by this next product that I fear I may have nightmares for the rest of my life. Not since the basement scenes from "Silence of the Lambs" or Tim Curry's convincing portrayal of Pennywise the Clown in the movie adaptation of Steven King's "It" have I seen anything quite so disturbing. Trust me -- I've seen it in person at the local Tuesday Morning store: Be afraid...be very afraid!

The Animatronic Singing And Talking Elvis ($199.95)



This is the animatronic Elvis, a singing and talking robotic bust adorned with The King's trademark leather jacket, sideburns, and pompadour, recalling the musical icon's performance during the highest-rated television event of 1968 -- Elvis Presley's Comeback Special. The device sings eight of Elvis' most acclaimed songs including Hound Dog, Love Me Tender, and Jailhouse Rock, and the mouth, eyes, and head movements are synchronized with the music, replicating his unique facial expressions (including the curled upper lip) and baritone voice. Integrated infared sensors in his jacket detect ambient motion, prompting Elvis to say "Bring it on back now" or another famous Elvis remark as you walk by, and the device has 37 monologues recorded from interviews that play at a touch of a button, each reflecting on the life and career of the The King. A karaoke feature allows you to sing along with Elvsi and the device has an audio port for connecting an MP3 player or another audio source, allowing you to play your own music through Elvis's 10-watt speaker. Includes a remote control, 1/4" microphone jack, and an AC/DC adapter. Remote requires three AAA batteries. 20-1/4" H x 13-3/4" D x 21-3/4" L. (10 lbs.)

Product Review: "This is the perfect gift for a big Elvis Fan. To sing along, you need to buy a separate mic...but it's great. So life like it's scary.

Gender: Male
Age: 31-35


"So life like it's scary." I'll tell you what's scary, Mr. Male age 31-35. What's scary is that you actually paid $200 plus shipping and handling for this future entry into the Creepshow Hall of Fame. I don't even want to think about anyone actually plugging in a separate mic and singing along with dead Elvis. To truly appreciate how very frightning this thing is, you must see it in action. (Warning: Not recommended for young children or those of you with weak constitutions!)

Since I am, after all, one of those "glass half full" kind of gals, I feel obligated to say something positive about Creepy Elvis. So here goes: You could probably prop him up on some phone books in your car's passenger seat and be able to drive in the HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lane during peak traffic hours. I guess every cloud truly does have a silver lining!

I know I said in my previous post that I was going to feature this product by itself, but I feel obligated to share with those of you actually considering purchasing Creepy Elvis another product that would most likely appeal to you as well. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present:

"The Slanket"

Here's the best blanket - hands down - for snuggling up with a book or laptop computer. Put your arms in the 13" -wide sleeves and then turn pages, type, knit or do anything else with your hands without uncovering your body. The generously sized Slanket in midweight polyester fleece feels great and keeps you warm indoors or out. Machine wash and dry. 60" W x 95" L. Available in five colors. ($44.99) Please note: deep fried peanut butter, mayonnaise and bacon sandwich not included.

This concludes Katdish's Holdiay Gift Guide brought to you in cooperation (albeit unknown) with our friends at Sky Mall Catalog. If you haven't had your fill of ridiculousness, just visit their website and make up your own commentary. It will be delightful, I'm sure. As for me, I think I need to seek the advice of a good therapist.