Lots of people love active games! Maybe you need one or two for family fun this holiday season? Or maybe someone on your list would love an active game as a gift? See some options below:
Tower Ball. I just heard about this one recently. Looks like a little skill is involved, but it looks like lots of fun! Get it here.
Cornhole. An old school favorite, Cornhole is fun for big groups, small groups, and can even be played alone! Kids and adults love it. Coming in under $80, this kit is a deal. Get it here.
Badminton/Pickleball Set. Badminton is an oldie but goodie. Add in the face that you can also play pickleball with this set, and it’s a bargain! All ages. Purchase here.
Spike Ball. Spike ball is a newer game, but people who have played it tell me they love it. I have friends whose college-age kids took Spike Ball to college with them. Get it here.
Beer Pong. Amazon has a Portable Beer Pong Table. I know lots of people who would love this gift…a folding table with precut cup holes to help prevent spills! If you have someone on your list who plays beer pong with friends or family, this is a fantastic gift! Four different styles/colors are offered. See them here.
Paddle Smash. I saw this one on Shark Tank, where they called it a smash up of Spikeball and Cornhole! It was a hit with the Sharks, and it would be a hit at a family gathering or party. Get it here.
Ladder Toss. Remember this game? Loads of fun and competitive! Great for kids or adults…or both! It’s an inexpensive gift at about $31. Get it here!
All of the above are great for holiday gatherings or as gifts for friends and family members!
I’m not going to waste your time with too many words here. Just check out these amazing early deals and get busy shopping! Don’t let me lose you with the prices on the first listing…lots of different price points below…
Luxury Deals. Y’all, it’s rare to find good deals on luxury brands, but here is your chance to get some great deals on pre-owned luxury handbags and more at What Goes Around on Amazon…15% off the already great prices on some luxury goods here. They’re still pricey, but if you’re going to purchase a luxury designer item for someone on your list, check these out first! See offerings from all your fave designers: Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci, Chanel, and more!
Amazon Fire Tablet Deals for the whole family. Up to 50% off Amazon Fire Tablets now! Don’t wait until Black Friday…get your deal now! Wrap it, and put it under the tree! See deals here.
Legos and other building sets for all ages. Up to 51% off Lego sets and others like K’nex! Have someone on your list who loves Legos? This could be your change to get them at a discount in advance of Black Friday! See them here.
Barbie Products. Wow! Up to 51% off Barbie dolls and products…ahead of Black Friday! Barbie is popular this year. Buy early here.
Ring Doorbells, Cameras, and Bundles. Get up to 50% off Ring Doorbells, cameras, and bundles. Have someone on your list who needs or wants this? Get it now at a deep discount!
Other tablets. Tablets from Samsung, Google, and more…on sale…many under $200! See the selection here.
Some Yeti cups and coolers. Some Yeti cups and coolers on sale for 30% off? Unheard off! Limited selection, but some are great! See them here.
JBL Earbuds. Get JBL earbuds up to 50% off now! See them here.
More deals to come! I’ll keep posting as I come across them!
Happy Holiday Shopping!
***As an Amazon Associate, I may receive a commission from your purchase.***
Earlier today, we had some work done in our kitchen. When our daughter was a little girl…two or three years old…I let her play with stickers underneath the kitchen counter, on the side where there is a big wall and barstools. The stickers didn’t show, but it kept her happy to play there while I was busy in the kitchen. My husband didn’t love the idea, but I told him then that it was harmless. Today, as the work was being done, we saw the stickers from our daughter’s childhood…princess stickers and fish and hearts and flowers. And my heart did flips. In my mind’s eye, I could see her there…as a toddler. It made me wistful for the days of her toddlerhood…the days when princess stickers and foam fish stickers made her happy. I felt nostalgic.
And that led me down the rabbit hole of nostalgia this afternoon. Don’t we all remember things about our own childhood that make us feel wistful? Don’t we all like to see tangible proof of days gone by?
Why not give the gift of nostalgia to friends and family on your Christmas list this year? Those gifts are out there, and I’m here to help you find them. Here are some I found pretty easily.
Time Traveling books. There are various Time Traveling books for different years. I was born in 1967, and while that would be interesting to me, other years might be more interesting…years that I actually remember…maybe 1973 and 1983…and more. These books contain information about different years: political info, leading events, crimes, iconic movies and TV shows, music, pop culture, fashions, iconic advertisements, and more. For some reason, I can only find them for years ending in 3, but wow…what a nostalgic gift! See them here.
Evel Knievel Stunt Cycle. Y’all, my brother loved watching Evel Knievel’s antics on TV. Actually, I did too. Anyone who was a kid in the 70s can remember watching Knievel jump cars, buses, and even the Snake River Canyon attempt on TV. My brother loved his Evel Knievel Stunt Cycle when he was a kid, and honestly, I think he would even like it now. But nostalgia doesn’t always come cheap, so be ready to pay almost $80 for this piece of nostalgia. Get it here.
Vintage Barbies book. Barbie has been around for a long time, and with the Barbie movie that came out this year, interest is greater than ever! Mom or daughter would love this book! Get it here.
Jiffy Pop. Kids of the 60s and 70s certainly remember Jiffy Pop. If their moms didn’t let them purchase it, they definitely remember the ads. It’s good popcorn…”as much fun to make as it is to eat.” Get it here.
Toys of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. This one is priced right at $14.95. The authors spotlight 45 loved toys from the three decades in this collection. It would make a great gift for anyone who was a kid in the 50s, 60s, or 70s. Get it here.
Rotary Phone. No one will want to use it, but it could make a cute addition the decor in a home…and a great conversation piece. Get it here.
Nostalgic toys. There are a few gimmicky toys we had back in the day that might be fun for the kids on our list. Remember the drinking bird? Get it here. How about the slinky? Get it here. Handheld water games? Get one here. Maybe some jacks? Get them here.
Boom Again Board Game. For the boomers! This is a trivia game that covers 50s, 60s, and 70s pop culture and music. What fun! I would love to see this under the tree for me! My brother and I are a mean trivia team. Let’s play! Get it here.
Yeah You T-Shirt. Someone on your list who was a teenage girl in the 1980s? She likely loved Sixteen Candles as much as I did. I have friends who can quote the whole movie. This t-shirt would be a fun flashback for that former teenager. Get it here.
Dolls and Teddy Bear Department book. This is a book featuring some of the favorite gifts from the Sears Wish Books of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Anyone over a certain age remembers circling the toys they wanted to see under the tree. It would make a great gift for anyone nostalgic. Get it for under $50 here.
I Want My MTV. Some of us remember when MTV was actually Music Television featuring music videos. We remember the premier of Duran Duran’s The Reflex and Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Some of us even remember the premier of MTV itself with Video Killed the Radio Star. This book tells the story of its origins. Anyone who loved MTV will love this book. Get it here. And while you’re at it, maybe you pick up a T-shirt to go with it here.
Hella 90s Trivia Game. More trivia…this time from the 90s. Get it here.
Milkshake Maker. People over a certain age remember making milkshakes at home, and if they didn’t make them at home, they got them at soda shops. Bring back some memories. Get it here.
Like Totally 80s Pop Culture Trivia Game. More trivia…this time from the 80s. Get it here.
My Dad Had that Car book. Anyone who likes cars or remembers their first car will enjoy this book. I have a friend whose teenage son loves vintage cars. He would love to find this under the tree. Get it here.
Commercial Tshirts. 70s kids loved television, and we loved our Saturday morning cartoons…commercials and all! How about these? Hawaiian Punch here. Froot Loops here. Kool-Aid here. School House Rock here. Mr Owl Tootsie Pops here.
Photo Album. And if you want to give a real nostalgic gift, a good old fashioned photo album could be the best gift of the year. Print out some photos and place them in the album yourself. Maybe write some great captions to go with the photos. Does it get any more personal than that? Sharing memories…ultimate nostalgia. To get started, purchase an album here.
More good ideas to come later!
Happy Holiday Shopping!
***And if you’re wondering about the stickers under the bar, here’s a picture. I couldn’t save the wall, but I could take a picture and save that.***
Satina High Waisted Leggings. One size for S-L, and one size for plus-size, making it easy, because you don’t have to pick a specific size. Apparently, they are super comfortable and slimming. I ordered a pair for me. Get them here.
Remedy Wash Tea Tree Body Wash. 46,000 reviews can’t be wrong. I read that is helps with skin irriations like dry skin and ringworm. It nourishes and moisturizes skin. Great stocking stuffer. Get it here.
Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows. More than 234,000 reviews, the vast majority of which are positive. That’s unheard of! These pillows are covered in 250-thread count fabric and offer some cooling relief. Get them here.
EZ Off Under Cabinet Jar Opener. If someone on your list is like me and has difficulty opening jars, this could be a great git! Almost 25,000 reviews say it’s great. Get it here.
GearLight Superbright Flashlight. One review I read said it lights up a whole backyard! That’s powerful. Sometimes, we like to go for a walk at night. We’ll be taking this with us to help watch for snakes and coyotes. Get it here.
Jade Face Roller. Does someone on your list complain of morning face puffiness? Drop one of these in his/her stocking. Get it here.
Amazon Fire Tablets. Why get an Amazon Fire instead of an iPad? Well, price, for one. If you’re just going to use it for streaming movies or playing games and not for communication, the Amazon Fire Tablet is great quality and starts at $84.99 on sale (at time of writing). See them here. Also, there’s a kids line of Amazon Fire Tablets…highly recommend, if you’re searching for a tablet for a kid. They’re made for kids, so they have a special screen that’s not as easily broken…and they come with a sturdy, protective case! See them here. Prices start at $109. The kids’ tablets make a great gift!
Amazon Essentials Poplin Pajama Pants. Prices starting at $17.40 (at time of writing). Purchase here.
Craftsman Ratcheting Screwdriver. If someone on your list doesn’t have one of these in their house, it’s high time they do. Great gift, and it’s inexpensive at under $15. Get it here.
Solawave Radian Renewal Wand and Facial Massager with Renew Complex Serum. I’ve read about this in magazines, and it has received awards for reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, blemishes, and puffiness. Sign me up! I’ll be asking for this for myself this year! If there is someone on your list who would appreciate this, it makes a great gift. Get it here.
Wen Hair Care Products. Wen Cleansing Conditioner saved my hair when it was breaking off a few years ago. I love it and recommend it. Get it here.
There you go…the holiday gifts you didn’t know they needed…but they will love. Coming soon: hostess gifts and gifts for friends and neighbors.
Holiday shopping ideas: my favorite Amazon purchases of the past year. ***All prices listed are subject to change. Any price shown was the price at time of publication.***
Sightline Multifocus Progressive Reading Glasses. One of my greatest purchases of all time. No joke. I love the Sightline Multifocus Reading Glasses. Ask my husband; I have several pairs in different styles. See their offerings here.
Anrabess Tunic Sweater. I purchased this in black and in forest green…several of each. I love them. Comfortable, soft, and they look more expensive than they are. Get them here.
Musicozy Sleep Mask with bluetooth ear buds. Love it! Great for airplanes. Great for tuning out someone’s snoring. Just all around great. Get them here.
Amazon Essentials Brushed Tech Stretch Joggers. So comfortable and lightweight! I’m wearing them right now! In fact, I wear them every opportunity, and they wash up well too! Get them for just $26.80 here.
Velvet Hangers. These have been awesome! I love that my clothes don’t slip off the hangers, and they take up less room in my closet! Get them here.
Rabbit Plastic Flask. Greatest flask ever. Get it here.
Bifocal Reading Sunglasses. I have had lots of bifocal readers over the years, but these are my new favorites. Get a two-pack for $21.98. They’re well-made and get the job done! Even my college-age daughter approved! Get them here.
Apple 2nd Gen Airpods. No, they’re not the latest model, but they’re great for me and a great price! I paid $99. I’ve used them on airplanes several times. Get them here.
Dippity Do Light Hold Gelee. If you’re my age, you grew up with Dippity Do. This claims to be the original formula, and it holds hair well. I like it. Get it here.
Lifestraw Filter Bottle. I love Lifestraw products. They filter 99.9 % of impurities from water. It’s cool to have a filtering bottle. I’ve used mine a lot. Get it here.
Anti-theft Backpack. I purchased one of these for a recent trip to Panamá. I carried it every day, and even took it on a boat trip through the Panamá Canal. I’m still carrying it. In fact, I’m considering another one. It’s inexpensive but sturdy and deters theft, because it opens on the side that’s against your back. Get it here.
Luggage Cable Locks. I purchased these for the same trip. These small locks are easy to use, and they are TSA approved. Get them for $22.99 for a set of four here.
RFID blocker credit card holder. Another purchase for the trip, this is still useful to me every single day. At $16.99, it’s a deal; it blocks scanners from stealing your credit card info. Get it here.
OOFOS recovery flip flops. I purchased these because a neighbor told me they would help my sciatica. Sciatica is better, and I’m still wearing them. They’re about $75. Get them here.
Ceramic Face Vases. I use these for makeup brushes on my vanity. They’re $25.99 for two. Get them here.
Stylus Pens. I love the way these pens write! They’re inexpensive, but they’re smooth. Get them here.
Makeup Erasers. I have talked about these until my friends are probably tired of hearing about them. They remove makeup with just water! My daughter and I are both amazed by them! Great stocking stuffer. Get them here.
O2 Cool Portable Fan. I take this on every trip I take. It gives off a lot more than you think it will. Place it on the nightstand…directly on my face. I stay cool. It’s lightweight and fits right into my carry-on. At only $11.99 right now, it’s a deal. Get it here.
Under Sink Organizer. I ordered this in August, and I’m amazed at how much more space I have under my bathroom vanity! Just $22.99 for two organizers! Get them here.
Tie Front top. I like this so much that I ordered two more. I wear them all the time. They’re comfortable and slimming. Get it here.
Statement Earrings. Cute earrings for $10.99? Yes, please! I think I got these in six colors. They’re lightweight and add some color around the face. They’re offered in lots of colors! Get them here.
Moving Bags. Great for moving college students to and from their dorms and apartments, and they’re super sturdy! They’re about $37 for an 8-pack. Get them here.
Folding Step Stool. I liked the first one so much that I bought an extra. This 13″ folding stepstool is useful all over the house and is easy to store. Get it for $14.99 here.
Plantar Fasciitis Socks. After struggling with plantar fasciitis, I purchased these, and they seem to help! Get them here.
Wi Touch Bluetooth TENS Machine. Sciatica caused me lots of pain this summer, but this TENS machine, that sticks to my back, delivered some relief. If you or someone you know suffers from back pain, it might help. It’s $69.95, but it’s worth it. ***Consult your doctor before using this product.*** Get it here.
Hulken Bags. One of my favorite purchases ever. No joke. Every household needs at least one. Bags on wheels…need I say more? Check the Hulken offerings on Amazon here.
Fly Fans. A little out of season now, but in the summer in the south, we definitely need something to keep flies away when we dine outdoors. These battery operated “fly fans” do the trick. For under $30, you can get four here.
Sunset Projection Lamp. My daughter got one of these when she lived in the dorm last year. She loved it. Great gift at $13.99 for a high school or college student. Get it here.
Verilux Happy Light. If someone on your list suffers with Seasonal Affective Disorder, this could be the answer. Give them happiness! Get it for $39.99 here.
Conair 1 1/4″ barrel curling iron. This is great for curling or smoothing hair. It’s the one I have used for years. Get it for $18.99 here.
Dyson Air Wrap System. It’s expensive at $599, but my daughter loves hers, and all her friends love the Dyson Air Wrap System for styling their hair too. They tell me they don’t know what they did before it. Get it here.
Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Shampoo. I used this every third shampoo and follow it up with a good conditioner. I love this shampoo for cleansing any buildup out of my hair. I buy the 33 oz size for $30.50, and it lasts a long time. Get it here.
Favorite Daughter Sweatshirt. I have one daughter, so it’s no surprise that she’s my favorite. She has a friend who has this shirt, so I got her one too. She loves it. Get it here for your favorite daughter.
She’s Birdie Personal Alarm. This is a great gift or stocking stuffer for any girl/woman…especially college students. Get it here.
Phone Charging Alarm Clock. I got this for my husband, and he loves it…uses it every day and night all the time. Get it here.
Those are my 35 favorite Amazon purchases from the past year! I hope you see something that can be useful as a Christmas gift for someone on your list!
After listing 18 stocking stuffer ideas a day or so ago, readers submitted me some more ideas.
Here we go…
RFID Credit Card Holder. I got one of these small credit card holders for myself before I traveled recently. I have heard so much about criminals using scanners to steal credit card information at sporting events and tourist areas lately, so I decided to protect myself. I got it in yellow, so I could see it easily in my handbag. At only $16.99, it’s a deal. Great for any girl/woman in your family. Get it here.
Headlamp. Everyone can use a headlamp at some point around the house. My husband uses one all the time when he’s working on something, so I don’t have to hold the flashlight. Y’all have seen the meme that says, “You think you scare me? I used to hold the flashlight for my dad.” Anyone who has ever done that understands. Energizer makes a great one for just $15.99 for TWO headlamps at Amazon. Dads will love it. And don’t all boys love flashlights of any kind? Get it here.
Midcentury Christmas Stocking Stuffer book. Anyone who grew up when I did (60s/70s) will be thrilled to get this stocking stuffer book filled with photos from that great time! Get it here.
Genuine Fred Roll o’ Notes. Can-shaped roll of sticky notes? Yes, please. For just $9.99, pick one: fruit cocktail, noodles, beans, or sushi. The recipient will think it’s funny…and useful! Get them here.
Football books. Because I love college football, my friend, Maureen, told me to purchase The System during a book fair at our daughters’ school. I loved it, and I’m about to read it again. I recommend it to everyone who likes college football. Have a college football fan on your list? This is a great stocking stuffer. Get it here. There’s also The Big Book of College Football Trivia that would be a pleaser. Get it here.
Shower Steamers. I have posted about these before, but I mention them again, because they are awesome. Even my college-age daughter thinks they’re awesome! I’m always proud when I surprise her with something she actually likes. These make your shower feel like a spa! Great for anyone on your list who can use a spa feeling at the end of a long day. Right now they’re just $12.99. Purchase here.
Gilmore Girls: At Home in Stars Hollow. If someone on your list is a fan of Gilmore Girls (like me), they would love this pop-up book. It’s fun and engaging, and it’s only $16.14. Get it here.
Pink Picasso Paint-by-number Kits. Again, this is something I have recommended before, and I stand by it. I have a friend who loves these. Great stocking stuffer for kids/teens/moms who need to relax…or for seniors who need an “activity.” My grandmother would have loved this. Back in the day, we sent her coloring books, but she would have loved this. Get it here.
FLIKR Personal Concrete Fireplace. I love this. A reader sent me a message about how much she loves using her FLIKR Personal Concrete Fireplace. It can be used indoors or outdoors and burns Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol, making it a clean burn and easy to use! On just five ounces of alcohol, it will burn for 50 minutes! (Do not add alcohol while flame is burning!) It even comes with a snuffer! It’s small, only five inches in diameter and five inches tall, but great for ambiance, roasting marshmallows, or providing a little heat. I’m ordering one now. It might be a little heavy in a stocking, so secure the stocking. The company has an outstanding reputation, and this concrete fireplace gets 4.6 stars on Amazon. Get it for as low as $94 here. Or if you’d like to spend less, you can get something similar on Amazon from The Fire Company for just $29 here.
Plantar Fasciitis Socks. These aren’t cute, sparkly, or fun, but they can make a big different for someone on your list who suffers from plantar fasciitis…like me. I purchased these for myself to help my plantar fasciitis, and indirectly, my sciatica. I feel like they have helped, so I wear them all the time. Get six pairs starting at $17.99, and they’ll fit right into Christmas stockings. The recipient will be grateful. Purchase here.
Car Cleaning Gel. It seems everyone is going crazy over this car cleaning gel, so I purchased some to put in the Christmas stockings of my husband and daughter. It gets great reviews and seems to be popular. At $6.99, I think it’s worth a try! Get it
Kendra Scott Necklaces. Until someone told me today, I had no idea Kendra Scott made a football necklace! It’s super cute! See it here. Lots of ladies love Kendra Scott necklaces…good, quality gifts. For more personalize Kendra Scott necklaces, the initial necklaces are great stocking stuffers. See them here. Or check out the whole line here. Some items are on sale right now!
Glow City Glow-in-the-Dark Balls. I think these could be fun for the whole family. Get a glow-in-the-dark football or basketball for yard play in the evenings. We have a big park across the street from our house, and I think the neighborhood kids (and adults) would love these. Get the basketball here. Or the football here. They come delated, so they should it in a stocking.
Seven Lady 3-D Nightlights. These awesome 3-D night lights offer a baseball player scene, a basketball player scene, and a solar system scene…with remote control and color-changing capabilities. Order whichever one your friend or family member would like. And they’re only $13.99! Get them here.
Winter Pom Pom Beanie. I love a good winter pom pom beanie, and I knit my own. However, I can’t knit them for the whole world, so you’ll have to order them for the people on your Christmas list. A great one is the Livingston Winter Beanie with Pom Pom…and it’s lined! Priced at $18.99, it comes in 15 colors! Get it here.
Genuine Fred MANATEA infuser. For the tea drinker on your list, this is a great gift…a manatee shaped infuser! They’ll love it, and it’s only $9.96! Get it here.
Dry Divas Shower Caps. Y’all, I have been using Dry Divas shower caps for six years. I am a believer in this product! They’re supposed to last three years, but I know I have at least one that’s six years old…and still in great shape. Before I had Dry Divas, I had trouble finding shower caps that actually stayed snug and kept all my hair dry. These are the real deal. Prices start at $25, and it’s worth every penny. If you have someone on your list who likes a good shower cap, this could be a gem for them. To see the one pictured below, click here. To see lots of different colors, click here.
Genuine Fred Gifts. Honestly, Genuine Fred has lots of awesome stocking stuffers on their Amazon page. I highly recommend visiting it for fun/funny ideas. See it here.
Those should keep you busy shopping for some stocking stuffers for a while. I’ll have more ideas in a couple of days! Before that, I plan to share all my favorite items I have purchased from Amazon in the last year or two, so check back!
I used to hate trying to come up with new ideas for stocking stuffers, but no more… now I love it! Stocking stuffers are meant to be fun! But I also like real gifts as stocking stuffers too, because that’s a big surprise to the recipient…
Multitool Pen. It’s always hard to find stocking stuffers for men, but this is a good one…a multitool pen that functions in 9 different ways. Priced at $15.99, it’s a no-brainer. Get it here.
Dior Addict Lip Products. My friends and I love Dior Addict lip products. I’m a big fan of the plumping maximizers and lip balms, while some of my friends love the lip oils. See a bunch of Dior Addict Lip Products at Amazon here.
Amber Book Reading Light. A reading light attached to a plastic book mark that fits inside my book? Yes, please! If you prolific readers on your list, this could be a great stocking stuffer. It’s even great for college students who need to stay up late reading but don’t want to disturb a roommate. Get it here.
I Saw That Jesus Door Frame Sign. Sometimes we need a reminder to do the right thing. A friend sent her child to college with one of these. I think it’s a great idea to hang on a door frame, window frame, or mirror frame. Comes in a variety of colors at different prices, starting at $7.96. Get it here.
St Tropez Self-Tan Express One-Hour Tan Kit. For the person on your list who feels better with a tan in winter, the St Tropez Express Tan One-Hour Tan Kit is awesome. The one I’m listing is a mini with a mitt included. Tan fat looks better than white fat, and a tan face makes teeth look whiter. Get it for $20 here.
Dr. Squatch All Natural Bar Soap. Great natural soaps that come three to a pack in three different “manly” scents. The man on your list will love finding this in his stocking. Get it here.
It Happened Right Here: America’s Pop Culture Landmarks book. A book by Chris Epting, the author of cult-fave James Dean Died Here, this latest work shares the locations of lots of pop culture happenings: featured TV show locations, the dorm room where Facebook was created, the scene of the Beyonce and Jay Z elevator incident, and more. I am partial to Mr. Epting’s work, since he co-authored Leif Garrett’s memoir, Idol Truth, and sent me a message thanking me for reviewing it and recommending it on my blog! *Brush with fame!* This book great for anyone who loves pop culture, and it’s great for anyone who might want to visit the landmarks (like me!). Purchase here.
Musicozy Sleep Mask. Mine arrived today, and you can bet your sweet bippy I will be sleeping with it tonight. I mentioned it in a previous post. My cousin slept with this sleep mask on our trip to Panama; it has earbuds built in, so you can cover your eyes and listen to stories, music, or white noise as you drift off to sleep. It’s inexpensive, and you can get one here for the stocking of anyone on your list.
Silly Putty. Come on. Silly Putty is always fun, whether you’re seven or seventy, right? Don’t we all remember pressing it on the funny pages of the newspaper to see the image on the silly putty? Plus, it’s just fun to shape and mold. Honestly, I guess it’s the original “fidget toy.” Get a three pack of the original Silly Putty eggs from Amazon here.
Gwa Sha Stone. I don’t get it, but these are all the rage with high school and college girls. They’re supposed to tone facial muscles and promote lymphatic drainage. My daughter uses hers all the time. This is a super easy and inexpensive stocking stuffer. Get it here.
Makeup Erasers. I have written about these more than once, but it’s because I love them so much! Remove all your makeup with a Makeup Eraser and water! Nothing else! It’s awesome! I use them. My daughter uses them. They make a perfect stocking stuffer! They’re reusable; I use one a day and place it in the mesh pouch. When the pouch is full, I throw it in the washer and dryer with my other laundry…and voila! Fresh Makeup Erasers come out of the dryer, ready to be used again! Seriously, stop wasting money on disposable makeup wipes. Get seven erasers for $25, and use them over and over again! Purchase here. Go ahead. Purchase them for everyone in your family who wears makeup.
Compact Waterproof Binoculars. Great for boating, birdwatching, sporting events, or the beach. These waterproof binoculars make a great stocking stuffer and will fit in a small handbag. They have a rubber outer shell, decreasing the possibility of breakage. The magnification is 8X, and they are only $17.99 at Amazon here.
Wireless Karaoke Machine. Everyone has that obnoxious friend or family member who would love a good wireless karaoke machine to “liven things up” on Christmas. Right? Hi. It’s me. I’m the problem. It’s me. Personally, I think it’s a great stocking stuffer. And at only $26.99, let’s goooooo! Get it here.
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Beanboozled. Y’all, I thought Beanboozled had left the building, but then, today, a friend started talking about it. It’s a jelly bean game…two different jelly beans look the same, but one is a bad flavor, and one is a yummy flavor. My daughter used to have the best time with Beanboozled, and not just with kids…she would get adults to play too! My brother was the best Beanboozled player (when he was in his 40s!), because he didn’t even flinch when he got a bad flavor (stinky socks, rotten cheese, etc). My daughter thought he was amazing! You can get Beanboozled at Amazon here. It could add some fun to the holidays!
Stylus Pens. I write and draw all the time. While I’m on the phone, I’m either walking (getting those steps in!) or writing/drawing in a notebook I keep in my kitchen. I like a pen that writes smoothly, but I also like a pen with a stylus, because I can use it on my phone and iPad. If you have someone on your list who likes to “doodle,” a stylus pen set could be a great stocking stuffer, and they’re inexpensive! These are some smooth-writing pens that look like they cost a lot more than they do! Get the multicolored set here.
Mini Cornhole. Enjoy cornhole on a tabletop! No big spaces needed! Get it for under $25 here.
Happy Belly Coffee Pods. If you have a coffee drinker on your list, Happy Belly Coffee Pods are awesome, inexpensive, and they come in lots of flavors. I love the breakfast blend. At $26.66 for 100 pods, they are a bargain! Seriously, that’s less than 27 cents a cup. Get them here.
Thumbs Up Cellphone Stand. Anyone who relies on their cellphone for daily task could use these cute cellphone stands shaped like “thumbs up.” $8.49 will get a two-pack. Get them here.
I’ll post more stocking stuffers…some more serious ones…later today or tomorrow! This should get you going, though!
We have a college student in our family, and she’s pretty easy to buy for at holiday season, mostly because she sends me a list of what she wants/needs. If you have a college student on your Christmas list, you can likely make him/her happy with some of the gifts listed below:
Jewelry Stand. College students need items to help keep those tiny rooms organized. A jewelry stand that helps organize necklaces, bracelets, and watches? They can all use it! Get it here. It comes in several colors. For rings? Get the hand-shaped ring holder here. It also comes in several colors.
Bronax Cloud Slides. College students like easy-to-use, comfy footwear. Fifteen colors! Slip on. Slip off. Get it here.
Samsonite Freeform Spinner Carry-on. I have mentioned this one before in another category (Travel Gifts), but every college student needs a good piece of luggage. They take weekend trips. They go home occasionally. Make it easy for them. Voted “Best Overall Spinner Carry-on” by Travel and Leisure Magazine, the Samsonite spinner is durable, nice looking, and inexpensive. It comes in lots of colors, so you can pick one that’s not just like everyone else’s, making it easy to identify in the overhead bin or in the jetway. Get it here.
Travel Bag with Trolley Sleeve. Also mentioned in my Travel Gifts piece. Since I listed the spinner luggage, I’m telling you about a companion piece…a travel bag with a trolley sleeve that sits atop the spinner and doesn’t fall, thanks to the sleeve that goes around the handle of the spinner. I have one, and I love it. Get one for less than $30 here, and pick your color out of several.
Hatch Restore 2 Alarm Clock. “No more jarring alarms.” That’s how Hatch markets this product that is a sunrise alarm clock. It’s supposed to support circadian rhythms. Sounds awesome to me! Any college student will love it! It also acts as a sound machine and helps lull the recipient to sleep; that’s what it says! The recipient can also sign up for a Hatch membership that offers meditations, sleep stories, and curated wind-down channels, if desired. This special clock is not cheap, but it gets fantastic reviews. Priced at $199. Get it here.
Lap Desk. There’s not much space in dorm rooms or college apartments, so a lap desk comes in handy. College students have been using them for decades; I even used one way back when I was in school! Now, they are new and improved, of course. The best I have found is from LapGear, and it’s priced right at under $40. See it here.
Portable Safe/Lock Box. College students get lots of visitors in dorms and apartments. If they have valuables they want to keep secure, this portable safe/lockbox can be a great gift! Even if they just want to lock up their cash or jewelry, this is perfect. With the included cable, they can attach it to a fixed object…like the closet hanging bar. It has a combination lock. Purchase here.
Lifestraw Products. I am a big believer in Lifestraw Products. They offer a variety of water-filtering products, including water bottles and pitchers that are great for college students. I have one of the water bottles I purchased when I traveled to Panamá earlier this year, and I love it. See all Lifestraw products here. See their latest filtering water bottles here. And if your college student likes to carry a favorite water cup/bottle, you can get them them the Lifestraw filtering water pitcher for filling the favorite cup/bottles here. Highly recommend.
Ugg Slippers. In winter, college students want to stay cozy, and dorm/apartment floors can be cold. My daughter loves her Ugg Coquette slippers. In fact, she likely wears them outside the dorm on occasion. See the women’s Coquette slipper here. Men seem to be a little more picky about their slippers. See the Ugg selection of men’s slippers here.
Nestl Reading Pillow. This goes hand-in-hand with the lapdesk we posted above. If they’re going to sit in bed to read or study, they’ll need a good reading pillow. This one gets great reviews. Purchase here.
Ninja Portable Blender. College students don’t want appliances that take up a lot of space. Their space is limited, so a portable blender is perfect for those days they want to make a smoothie! I hate seeing coffee shop charges on my credit card, so I told our daughter to get recipes for her favorite smoothies or coffee drinks. The Ninja portable blender is great. My husband uses one regularly. Get it here.
Portable Speaker. College students like their tunes. My daughter loves her JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. She uses it all the time. Priced at about $90, it provides a big bang for the buck. Everyone knows JBL quality is great. Get it here.
Board Games. Sounds silly, I know, but college students love distractions, and they especially love distractions that involve their friends. Yes, people still play board games…especially young people. Some of the old greats are still great. Yahtzee? Click here. Operation? Click here. Uno? Click here. Sorry? Click here. Pictionary? Click here. Scattergories (my personal fave)? Click here.
Basketball. Basketball hoops are everywhere on and near college campuses. However, if you don’t have a basketball, it’s a little difficult to start a pick-up game. Give the gift of fun and friendship: a basketball. Get it at Amazon here.
Bliss Lights Skylite Projector. College students are under a lot of stress, so they love anything that helps them relax. The Bliss Lights Skylite Projector will do just that! Get it at Amazon here.
Jonathan Adler Lollipop Holder. It’s gimmicky. It’s silly. However, friends will think it’s hilarious when they visit your college student, and they’ll love knowing they can grab a lollipop any time! We keep our daughter’s stocked with Tootsie Pops. Get it here.
Taco Tuesday Essentials. College students living in apartments love to host friends for Taco Tuesday. Amazon has lots of fun stuff just for that! Your college student will be the host with the most! See a great Taco Tuesday set here.It serves four, but you can purchase more pieces at the link.
Hoping you found some great ideas for the college student on your list. We will likely publish another list for college students in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!
I love travel gifts. Why? Well, because I love to travel. I don’t have to go all around the world, but I do love just getting out of town. Therefore, I have some great ideas for the travelers on your holiday shopping list:
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner. Named “Best Overall Carry-On 2023” by Travel & Leisure Magazine, you won’t get one faster than I do, because I’m ordering one for me and one for my daughter as soon as I finish typing this. It’s hard-sided. It’s expandable. It’s durable. It has great wheels. It comes in great colors. And it’s less than $200! Merry Christmas to me! If you have a traveler on your list, this could be the perfect gift. I’m getting us a lilac one and a powder blue. I like to get colors you don’t see out there often. Get them at Amazon here.
Travel Bag with Trolley Sleeve. To go with the spinner above, you could get a travel bag with a trolley sleeve that sits atop the luggage and doesn’t fall…thanks to the sleeve. You can get one for your favorite traveler at Amazon for under $30. It comes in multiple colors and gets great reviews. See it here.
Destinations of a Lifetime. A hardcover book published by National Geographic, this lists 225 of the world’s most spectacular places. If you have someone on your list who enjoys travel, this could be a great gift. Priced at just $$23.25, it’s an inexpensive but useful gift. The traveler will love it. The person who dreams of travel will love it too. My mother, in her later years, when she could no longer travel, loved seeing great destinations in print or on TV. See it here.
Portable Blender. If you have a traveler on your list who loves their protein shakes as much as my husband does, you need to get them this Ninja portable blender. My husband packs one in his suitcase no matter where we go. It’s not heavy or bulky. At $59.99, it’s a bargain, and it gets the job done! Get it at Amazon here.
Apple AirPods. I mentioned these in another list, but I’m adding them here, because they are essential for long flights…or even long car rides with family. My college-age daughter has had some for years, but I was reluctant to get them, thinking I would never use them. I use them. Because I wasn’t sure if I would use them, I didn’t get the latest model, but the ones I have (2nd generation) are great, and they’re just $99. Teenagers might care, but if you’re buying for someone over 30, they probably don’t care that they’re not the latest. Get them here.
Airplane Window Frame. Have a traveler on your list who loves to take photos while traveling? An airplane window photo frame could be the perfect gift! I’d love one myself! Get it here for just $19.90.
Anti-Theft Backpack for Women. Y’all, before I traveled to Panama in October, I purchased an anti-theft backpack to take with me. I hate backpacks that have easy access from the outside; I think they are made for pickpockets. Any female traveler on your list could use an anti-theft backpack for exploring cities. See the one I purchased for under $30 here. It’s lightweight, roomy, and I love mine. It comes in several colors.
Travel Hairdryer. Yes, hotels have hairdryers. However, how many times have you been in a hotel and wondered why you trusted them to provide a good dryer? The best travel dryer I have found is the T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Dryer. It’s not cheap at $179, but it’s a great dryer that folds in half, so it takes up less room in luggage. Any traveler on your list would appreciate this. See it here.
Baseball Hat Carrier. Someone on your list love his/her baseball hats when traveling? You can be the hero of the holidays with this gift! I had no idea this even existed until a friend told me about it! It holds and protects up to six baseball caps. They can carry it as their carry-on or pack it in a bigger bag. I know several people who could use this! Get it here.
Portable Neck Fan. For those travelers on your list who can’t sleep on a plane without a fan, here’s the perfect gift! This is the big daddy of neck fans with lots of power, and its rechargeable. It comes in a variety of colors. Get it here.
Sleep Headphones/Eye Mask. My cousin travels with these, and after a trip with her, I see the genius behind this product. Block out all the noise and light with these. If someone on your list prefers to fall asleep listening to music or a story…or even white noise from a phone, this is a great gift. I’ll be asking for this myself. Get it here.
Buffalo Leather Hanging Dopp Kit/Toiletry Bag. Travelers need extra room in hotel bathrooms. The KomalC Buffalo Leather Hanging Toiletry Bag provides that extra space. Travelers don’t have to run out of room on the vanity if they have this. It will be a welcome gift. Get it here.
Hey Dudes. Folks love their Hey Dudes shoes. Another product my cousin introduced me to, these slip-on shoes are all the rage, especially with travelers. Anyone who has had to take off their shoes while passing through TSA checkpoints knows the drama. Make it easy for the traveler on your list with Hey Dudes. Seriously, even if you have TSA Precheck, you can be pulled out of line for a random check…and have to take off your shoes. Hey Dudes are inexpensive, and apparently, they are awesome! The traveler on your list will be grateful. See the entire Hey Dudes line at Amazon here.
There are some great options for the travelers on your list. I will have more ideas for travelers soon, so feel free to check back!
Happy Shopping!
***If you’d like to purchase the airplane Christmas ornament in the featured photo, you can get it at Amazon here.***
Lots of us love gifts for the home. I love when someone gives me something I can use or display at home. Therefore, I’m sharing some favorite ideas for 2023:
Vietri Vase. Y’all, I love Vietri glassware, and their vases are my very favorite. They add a little beauty and color to any room. Your friends/family would love to receive a Vietri vase. My fave is the Vietri Hibiscus mouth blown glass vase, starting at $65 for the small clear version and $69 for various colors…the cobalt, the dark green, the pink…I love them all! Purchase here.
Ice Ball Maker. This is great for the person on your gift who loves a good cocktail on the rocks. Or if they like a good Old Fashioned, they will love being able to make their own ice balls to perfectly chill their cocktails. Get this thoughtful gift for just $16.99 at Amazon here.
EXVALO nightlight/charger/speaker. This is an unusual gift I would love to receive! An adjustable bedside nightlight with phone charging capabilities and a Bluetooth speaker. It’s portable and rechargeable! In fact, I think we need one on every nightstand in our house. Priced at just $35.99 right now (on sale 40% off!), it’s a great gift for anyone on your list. Get it here.
Frozen Beverage Machine. I want a frozen drink machine at home. I did a little investigating, and I found that the Margaritaville brand gets great reviews and is priced right too! It’s not commercial grade. For that, you’ll spend more, but for a home machine, Margaritaville gets great reviews. It’s still $320 (at time of writing). If you have someone in on your list who likes to entertain with frozen margaritas, daquiris, or anything, else, this could be a great gift. The Margaritaville brand makes 2.5 pitchers at a time. Purchase here. If you’re up for commercial-grade, I recommend VEVOR brand. Prices start at $542 for the slushie maker on Amazon. What I really like about VEVOR is that no pitcher is required. You can dispense the beverage straight from the machine. I love it. . See the various VEVOR options here.
Garden Potting Bench. Have someone on your list who loves gardening? Me. I’m the one on the list who loves gardening. My husband knows I would be happy to receive a potting bench for Christmas. I found one from Yaheetech on Amazon that I would love, and priced at under $70, it’s a deal. There is some assembly required, but according to reviews, it’s pretty easy. If you have a gardener on your list, this could be a great gift at a great price. They’ll never suspect it’s under $70. Get it here.
Double Stitch by Bedsure Throw Blankets. Who doesn’t love a good throw blanket? Double Stitch by Bedsure makes quality blankets at great prices. Add a splash of modern charm to any room with these blankets, priced right now on sale at Amazon for $59.99. Get one for each person on your list! See them here.
Hippo Resin Figurine Dish. Y’all are going to think I’m crazy, but I love this hippo figurine that also acts as a bowl for keys, candy, whatever you want. It will be a conversation piece, for sure! Priced at $30.99, it’s a fun gift that will get noticed Christmas morning! Get it here.
Jonathan Adler Greek Key Frame. I love Jonathan Adler products for their modern look and for their whimsy. This one isn’t as whimsical as some, but it’s a great frame. Pop in a favorite photo for the recipient and wrap it up. Photo memories make great gifts. See it here.
Birdfeeder. The older I get, the more I remind myself of my mother. During summer, I enjoy watching the birds flock to my garden, but during the winter, they need to eat too! I’m adding a “birdfeeder” to my Christmas list this year. Hopefully, my husband will read this and come through. Otherwise, I’ll have to rely on Santa. There’s a great one at Amazon for $17.99 here.
Great Escapes Coffee Table Book. I’m a big fan of coffee table books. They add color a room and tell visitors a little bit about the residents. Have a traveler on your list? They might like a Great Escapes Coffee Table Book. My favorite right now? The Great Escapes USA: The Hotel Book. Priced under $50, it makes a lovely gift for the traveler on your list. Get it here.
There you have it…ten home gift ideas for the holidays. I’ll be following up with more ideas until Christmas.
Happy Shopping!
***As an Amazon Affiliate, I might receive commission on items purchased through my links.
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