Whoa, y’all!  Anybody else surprised that it’s suddenly mid-October already?? My husband keeps teasing me by telling me exactly how many days left until Christmas, because just like the rest of the world, we’re walking around a little shell-shocked over the roller coaster that has been 2020. 

So instead of spending time analyzing what happened to March through September (!), I’m just going to dive into something fun (or at least it should be!) for a change. 

Here goes: How do you tackle approach the gargantuan task joy of Christmas shopping?

Do you go in for Black Friday mania (which may NOT be a thing this year)?

Or do you prefer to take a relaxed little-by-little approach throughout the year? 

Or perhaps, do you start around October with a bit of a slow pace and find yourself sprinting to the finish long about Christmas Eve?

 If you’re like me, you may spend more hours searching for ideas than actually procuring the gifts. (I’m a total research junkie!!)

So I’ve spent some time thinking about some of my favorite things, all of which I’ve used and loved myself, many of which I’ve given as gifts, most of which I’ve researched extensively, and a few that I place in the absolute gamechanger/lifechanger category. 

There are some newer items, but many are oldies but goodies or just my favorite version of a fairly common item. I like to give gifts that are useful, multi-purpose, if possible, and are unlikely to become clutter. 

Hopefully one or more items on the list will help you through the idea phase. Or spark some new ideas. Or let you know what to tell your significant other when they ask for ideas for you… But most of all, bring you a little bit closer to a more tranquil holiday season. 

Click on the headings or the bolded links within the paragraphs for visuals and pricing info.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon affiliate I earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Clothing/Accessories:

Puffer jacket/vest –

I actually bought a designer name pair of these at Sam’s for my daughters at least three Christmases ago. They were definitely not more than $30-40 each, but have been worth several times that price! We have all three worn these jackets over and over again—and will continue to! They’re good for anything from weather in the 50’s down to the 30’s, which pretty much covers TN winters. But they’re SO lightweight and pack into a nylon sleeve. They’re PERFECT for travel (when we ever get to do that again), but also super versatile, and pretty timeless fashion-wise. (Disclaimer: not a fashion blogger!)

Toboggan/cowl/inifinity scarf –

Last summer I traveled to a high-altitude area of Mexico and bought a handmade convertible toboggan/ cowl from a lovely shop owner. These are great for elevating an outfit/adding some visual interest, while also adding a warm layer, either when it’s super-cold outside, or even when it’s just brisk and you’d like to add some warmth without breaking out the parka. Infinity scarves have been around for several years now, but have become a real go-to for me for adding a little warmth when its slightly chilly, or giving me a layer to stay warm when I want to shed my coat, but would be chilled otherwise.

Uniqlo Airism Leggings –

We stumbled on to this store at Disney Springs a couple of years back, and I bought some leggings because my girls and I are always needing a pair for dance (them), running (me), or just everyday attire (all of us since the pandemic happened). My girls kept stealing them, and our consensus was that these are some of the best affordable leggings we’ve tried. They are supportive and somewhat generous in length (I often have to buy talls). They are comfortable (gusseted and no outside side seam) and have held up really well. I have a two-year old pair that look just as good as when I first got them.

Darn Tough socks –

We discovered these in Vermont where they’re made. Many styles are made with high-quality Merino blends, and all are LIFETIME GUARANTEED (!!), so we bought several pairs. I personally got the runners, and some hiking socks. They’re comfy and the wool keeps feet warm and dry (not sweaty!). We simply love these socks. And did I mention they’re lifetime guaranteed?!

Gold filled jewelry –

Gold-filled (NOTE: NOT GOLD-PLATED—these are two entirely different products) is not as inexpensive as costume jewelry, but it’s a great alternative to solid gold. And for items like bangles super-dainty chains and rings, even preferable because it’s sturdier. It’s somewhat hard to find from commercial vendors, and a little bit risky to buy online. But I discovered some lovely artisans on ETSY that offer custom pieces, and I’ve had good experiences with the products thus far. I ordered custom rings with scripture references stamped on them for my girls last Christmas, and we’ve ordered rings and earrings since then. They’ve worn them all year long while exercising and in the shower, without any show of wear and tear so far.

Baggallini bags –

A company started by two flight attendants, these bags are amazing. I have one that has traveled half the world over with me as a carry-on/overnight bag. I’ve also carried it as a large purse/tote on days when I’ve needed to carry a computer or snacks. It is SO well thought out with pockets and compartments and padding in just the right places. It’s also has crazy-durable nylon construction. After years of heavy use, mine looks as good as the day I bought it. You can buy direct from their website. But TJ Maxx carries them fairly consistently (I got mine there for cheap!) but I’ve also seen used bags for sale online.

Fanny Pack –

Yes… I know. These went out with high-tops and wind suits when the nineties ended. OR DID THEY? Actually, I’m mostly seeing them called waist bags nowadays (sounds better, right?), and let’s just face it.  They’re totally practical. When you need to be hands-free and you don’t need a full-fledged purse, they’re actually perfect. I still have one of mine from the 90’s, and it’s been a valued accessory to hold my phone and a little money (plus a facemask these days), and maybe a pack of gum, if I’m walking or jogging around my own town, or hiking or shopping when out of town.

Compact backpack –

Got one of these for my hubby for hiking, which I can’t wait to get back to as all the snakes go into hibernation and the bugs go dormant (or wherever they go) for the winter. He didn’t want to carry his large work/utility backpacks if we’re walking enough miles that our own weight gets cumbersome, so we noticed when we were doing a day hike in a national park that lots of people had these dandy compact packs. He got one from me on the next gift-giving occasion, and we put it to use right away. Also great for same uses as the fanny pack. It can even carry a couple of bottles of water. 

Useful:

Cordless drill/driver –

If you don’t have a cordless drill, I have no idea how you’ve survived until now. Admittedly, I use mine MUCH more often as a driver than I do for actually drilling holes, but it has saved my arms and countless hours of screw driving (we’ve bought lots of not-preassembled-furniture) over the years. I prefer a light-weight model, in keeping with the reason I use it in the first place: not a lot of arm strength. I also look for keyless chucks and variable speed capability as well as adjustable torque levels. Everybody (especially other women in your life) needs one of these.

Ladies tool kits (general) –

I think EVERYONE needs to have the following: a drill (if possible) or electric screwdriver with interchangeable bits, a set of screwdrivers or one with multiple heads, a set of wrenches or at least an adjustable one,  a small ratchet set, a tape measure, a hammer (many are sized down to a better weight for ladies), assorted pairs of pliers. (I’ll have to do a whole post on this one day!) But there are some cute tool packs made especially for us girls these days. (Pink to deter the men in your life from borrowing them…)

Brother P-touch Labeler –

This is an inexpensive MUST for everyone’s organization arsenal. It’s a cinch to learn and it’s  SO fun to use. There are lots of options these days, too, as to size and colors of tapes. You can also do lots of different fonts, and sizes of lettering, as well as adding icons and borders and changing up the formatting. It could be paired with a small household file system for an organizing-themed gift (one that keeps on giving!).

Stainless foot-pedal trash can –

I know. This seems like a strange gift, but this one falls in the life-changing category. After enjoying an integrated garbage can drawer at our last home, I moved into our 100-year old cottage and could not possibly give up the under-counter space but hated the idea of returning to a plastic (perpetually gross) lidded model. My cheapskate self sprang for the Walmart version of a stainless can with a foot pedal, which has turned out to be a great one! I’m just gonna say it: the plastic foot-pedal ones NEVER work. This one works EVERY time. I love it so much I gave one as a gift to my parents, who had fought with yucky plastic lids for decades on end. LIVES CHANGED. If you want to give it as a gift, you can jazz it up by filling it with other gifts, like this year’s hottest items: toilet paper and hand-sanitizer. Or perhaps a year’s supply of garbage bags…?

Boogie Board –

Great little electronic memo boards. These have been around for years, but I still love them. We keep one on our fridge for non-text notes. (I got a short, sweet “I love you note” from the hubs on it the other day.) It’s just low-tech enough to feel a little bit like the old analog days. But it doesn’t waste paper. It has an included stylus. The included battery that helps it erase lasts for ages. And it erases with the touch of a button. 

Multi-tool pen –

Here’s one for the gadget-lovers in your life. I love all sorts of multi-tools! These come with an assortment of features like a window breaker (keep it in the car for emergencies), small screwdriver, compass, level, pen, flashlight, ruler, etc. etc. etc.

Kitchen:

Strawesome glass straws –

Great for eliminating disposable straws. I prefer these over stainless straws, because I can see through them to clean them, and over silicone straws because they don’t have a taste to them like silicone ones sometimes do. I have given these as gifts multiple times and gotten rave reviews months and years after the fact. These particular ones also come with a replacement guarantee, which I’ve personally used. Great customer service. They also run some great clearance deals if you’re buying multiples for gifts.

Electric Kettle –

We’ve replaced our coffee pot with this (see next item for details), since we have limited counter space and enjoy hot tea multiple times each day in addition to coffee each morning. So fast and convenient!! Also great for instant oatmeal in the mornings.

Melitta pour-over cone –

We are a house divided. Part regular and part decaf. And no one drinks a full pot of either. So the pour-over coffee method has saved the day. Plus it’s delicious! And the cone fits in the cabinet with the other mugs when I’m done!

Instant Pot –

If you know someone who still doesn’t own an instant pot, it’s a lifesaver. Or at least a regular supper-saver. We cook soups, greens, meats, rice, potatoes, and beans among other things in a fraction of the time it takes on the stove. And you don’t have to stand over it and babysit it. I’ve even hardboiled eggs in mine. I had an off-brand model, but I found that most of the available recipes on the internet (and there are millions) are written specifically for the actual Instant Pot. Also, I traded up to get a stainless steel insert, which I prefer over non-stick. There are lots of accessories available now that extend the usage of the Instant pot and would make great gifts for those who already have one. 

Cutco knives –

I bought a few Cutco knives because a young adult we knew was selling them, but they have really been another example of tools that I’ve used every single day. They’re American made and have a lifetime guarantee. Whenever you need them sharpened, you simply send them in to the company and get them back good as new. I have a chef knife that makes me feel like a proper culinary pro and a bread knife that can actually cut through beautiful crusty loaves of bread without smushing them.

Scripture/inspirational mugs –

My mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law have raved over this simple gift that I’ve picked up multiple times at Christian gift stores and TJ Maxx. They use them so much that they eventually break and they ask for more! I have loved ones my mother has given me. It’s a great reminder to think on God’s word while I drink my coffee—a wonderful way to start the day.

Spiralizer –

I received one of these as a stocking stuffer years ago. I usually use it to make zoodles (zucchini noodles, duh!), which are a great alternative if you’re watching carbs or gluten or just trying to get more veggies into your life.

Silicone baking mat –

Aldi (I love Aldi. Let me count the ways…) usually offers these up every year around Christmas  at a much more reasonable price than an actual brandname “Silpat.” They work great to make all my old blackened pans stick-free, when I bake cookies or roast veggies, or whatever. And then I toss them into the dishwasher. They’re a nice addition to a cookie mix and perhaps some cookie cutters as a themed gift.

Flexible cutting mats –

My aunt included some of these jewels in a gift basket for me one year, and even though I’ve replaced them with a little more substantial set, I’ve seriously gotten rid of almost all of my other cutting boards in favor of these. I love to use different colors for different types of foods. They take up almost NO space. After I cut up the food, they’re easy to pick up and funnel the food into a container or cooking vessel. And they go through the dishwasher beautifully. 

Vitamix –

Obviously a higher end gift, but best. kitchen. purchase. ever. We make smoothies, soups sauces, salsa, slaws, and more. Mine has replaces my food processor and obviously any previous inferior blender. There is no comparison. I found mine on a restaurant supply site years ago, but now they’re available at a similar discount at most of the wholesale shopping clubs. We definitely use ours every single day.

General:

ENO –

Standard nylon hammock used by outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. We actually purchased the Eno for my husband, by my daughters ended up stealing it from him. They’ve used it in the back yard for an outdoor reading escape. They’ve also used it to hang out in parks and nature with their friends. “Enoing” has actually become a verb we understand at our place. Like, “Mom, I’m going Enoing with ______ and _________.”

BIC 4 Color pens –

This year is the 50th anniversary of these classic pens being around. They’re fun and nostalgic and at 50. (just like me) better than ever, with some jazzy new colors.

Puzzles –

I know puzzles became a craze during the lockdown days. It might be a good time to restock (it could be a long winter). Plus, they’re just fun. Last Christmas, I left a 1000 piece puzzle out on our main coffee table for the holiday season, and we had some of our best talks with the young people in our lives AND their friends, just sitting around adding a few pieces at a time.

AirPods –

I recently got me some on a wild (for me) splurge with my birthday cash. And even though I’m usually very low maintenance, tech-wise, I LOVE them. I have been listening to audiobooks (FREE from the library) while I do laundry and dishes and scrub floors—it’s making me look forward to housework!  Sort of…! I love that I don’t have to constantly fuss with the cords and worry about them falling out. I also love listening to music when I end up running or walking by myself. They also make hands-free phone conversations much easier. Great splurge gift!

Amazon Music, among other streaming/subscription services –

My husband and I share a subscription to Amazon Music (we can’t listen to it at the same time, but it’s hardly ever an issue. It’s super easy to use and I have some AWESOME playlists on there that make my ears happy for hours. Also consider some of the lesser known niche streaming services that Roku, Firestick, or Apple TV owners may enjoy. And don’t forget subscriptions to audio or e-book services, like Audible or Kindle Unlimited.

Restaurant gift cards –

These are ALWAYS a winner with our family. We try to economize and eat at home as much as possible, so eating out guilt-free is a total treat! It’s hard to go wrong giving these as gifts. And no worries with wrapping or transporting!

Reading lights –

I gave these as a gift to several family members, including my husband last year. I have ended up using them for all sorts of tasks, in addition to taking them along when we travel—SO many places only have a lamp on ONE side of the bed!??

Glasses/Electronics cleaning cloth –

I love having this Optic Scarf from Norwex in my purse at all times for my glasses, but also my phone and/or computer screen. And they come in a variety of gorgeous prints.

Yeti –

I use this for my coffee. (As I mentioned before, I do a pour over each morning.) I like to usually have two cups, so I brew them simultaneously into this Yeti, and have them whenever I get a chance throughout the morning. They come out just as good and hot as when they’re fresh brewed.

Poo-pourri –

I’ve kept this amazing stuff in all our bathrooms for years. If you have yet to try it, just know it can save you and/or your guests a world of embarrassment. Or it can just be one more way for your family to show love to one another. I have given these as Dirty Santa or gag gifts, but they’re seriously awesome stocking stuffers or travel gifts. More expensive than matches but equally more effective.

Ultrasonic diffuser plus some good quality essential oils –

Diffusing with some basic essential oils or blends is a great way to get your feet wet with oils. I do recommend staying away from any diffusing oils that are not therapeutic grade. Here’s a good online source for single oils or blends.

Feel free to share any additional inspiration you may have in the comments section! Happy hunting!!

Blessings,