As a kid, all I wanted was the inflatable Fred Flintstone 'bopper' toy. It sat on the floor and you kind of boxed with it. It was waiting at the foot of the stairs for me on Christmas morning. Apparently I liked to hit things as a kid.
In the 80's, Aviator jackets were all the rage. I feel in love with one but knew I would never get it- it was over $200 - a SMALL FORTUNE- especially in 1988! So imagine my surprise when it was the last gift I opened that Christmas! And a footnote: I still have that jacket... and it still fits!
Wow... I have to think about this one... My parents bought me power tools over the years - of course, you know that can only lead to some very cool... and sometime "interesting" creations. I always wanted Laser Tag when I was a kid. Never did get that game, but I did end up with a new paintball marker one Christmas, which led to many many hours of enjoyment plinking people while attempting not to become too much of a target myself!
My great grandmother would send us these packages with tiny little treasures individually wrapped that was geared specifically to each grandchilds interests. It was like a Christmas treasure chest to us. That and I got new warm pajamas every year.
Growing up Jewish, my favorite Hanukkah gifts were model kits. THAT and huge checks from my dad's parents...