So, sometimes I really need to think outside the box to find great gifts for the people I love. My little sister is a ROCK STAR at coming up with the perfect gifts for our family. We’re all getting older and it feels like we have everything. To make matters worse, shopping makes me a little crazy sometimes. Spending time with family, sharing a meal, and building memories are WAY more interesting to me than materials.
But, every year, the fam hunkers down and goes shopping.
And here’s what I’ve learned:
Purchasing gifts for others can go beyond just swiping a credit card. Gifting is about more, if you let it be about more.
My sister is an amazing gift giver because she really thinks about what a person might like. The gifting comes well before the credit card swipe. For Lil Sis, gifting comes in the process of preparation. She explores. She thinks. She asks questions. And she identifies sweet things that let a person know, “I know you. I see you. I love you.”
Unique finds can help a person feel seen and known. This builds connection. And truly, connection is what we seek when we’re gifting. Consider some of these unique finds as you shop for Christmas. Here are a few favorites that will work for the people I love. Read on to see how.
Snail moisturizer
My mother has sworn for years that moisturizer is the most important thing for our skin. But for me, finding the right moisturizer feels like a constant battle. Lil Sis has been telling me for almost a decade about Snail Slime Moisturizer. Well, I think it’s time! Mom or Sister would love this gift because (a) I can replenish stock on sister’s supply and (b) Mama can try something new that is sure to impress. Are you willing to give this one a try?
Cable Organizer
Nothing gives my mother a greater high than cleaning and organizing. When things get untidy she gets…..what’s the right word? She gets a little veklempt. Sweet little organizers like this Cable Organizer Pouch are a perfect stocking stuffer for her, and the kids can purchase this one in a number of places while we’re out and about. They feel great finding little things for their Grammy and I love knowing she’ll actually use something we bought her (which is absolutely to say that I haven’t seen that macaroni necklace on her in a while. Just sayin’).
Beats wireless headphones
My dad is getting older. There’s no way around it. His hearing is less-than-perfect, but he still loves music, movies, and listening to the news (as well as “Sunday Morning” with Jane Pauley. Side note: I love her and I can’t believe it took so long for her to get that slot! She is fabulous!) These Beats Headphones fit great, work well, and allow him to hear everything by cancelling out everything else. They’re a great fit for Mr. 70-something and I’m pumped they come in RED because the guy likes to look sharp, even in his headphones.
Reusable water balloons
I know that this is a toy that requires patience. It’s a skill most kiddos don’t have. But I just know my nephew can handle it. These water balloons were a total hit at the pool all summer long. They come in a little mesh bag for easy transport, they didn’t break all summer, and I know that the kids can’t wait to get them out again. If you have a trip planned to get out into the hot sunshine somewhere south of here, these water balloons are small enough to pack and tote along. The kids will love them, and I can’t wait to share!
Rocker camping chair
Our sweet Baba is grandmother to 8 grandchildren! While it’s a total blessing, it also means a lot of potential time spent on a field, at a game, sitting on the sidelines cheering on the little people in her life. My dad purchased some nice camping chairs a few years back, but these rockers are a step ahead of the game. Thankfully, Baba is not confrontational, nor is she a real shouter, so she likes to sit peacefully while she spectates. These chairs fold up and open up with enough ease that they’re a worthy investment. I totally recommend these and know they will get put to great use!
Share the wealth of your own knowledge! Add your thoughts and ideas in the comments! Nothing makes gifting simpler than sharing great ideas and figuring out what works or doesn’t work! Thanks for reading and share the peace.