Boost Your Holiday Gift Giving with Thoughtful Gifts that will keep on giving throughout the year.

Do you decorate around your Christmas tree? Do you like lots of boxes around your tree? Is it important that everyone get a gift box? Do you count how many each person is to receive?
Are you finding it increasingly difficult to find that perfect gift to put under the tree?

That perfect gift can be hard to find.

You decorated the Perfect Christmas tree, now to find gifts to put under it. This can be a challenge. You’ve shopped and shopped. And browsed and browsed. Nothing seems to fit for that special one. Or it’s too expensive. Are you sticking to a budget and finding all those boxes are costly?

It is important to remember that gift giving is about expressing how much we care about the receiver. The gift is a symbol of our connection. I think the biggest word is CONNECTION.

The true art of gift-giving lies in its thoughtfulness and meaning and the connection to the receiver. Take the time to really think of the receiver. If you can’t think of all of those wonderful people on your list, maybe your list is too long?

Not Everyone Needs a Christmas gift box. And we don’t Need multiple boxes of items that are soon forgotten. (There are gifts I’ve given grandkiddos over the years, that I have never seen again! Lesson learning here.)

If your list is so long, you might want to think of an experience for the group. Not everyone needs a box to open. You can dress up gift-card holders with some info on the event. That way everyone has something to hold on to, post to remember and be able to anticipate the event.

Definition of a perfect gift: It is an item of sorts that someone really wants. They will use it, and most of all, they will love it. The gift will recognize the individual’s interests, style, and desires.

Tailoring your gift becomes a reflection of how well you know them and appreciate them. (Have you ever given a gift that was received with a curious expression? I have! I really thought she’d like it! I’m learning.)

Are you stumped? Are you trying to find something Different? Something special?

Christmas 2024 is about Health. We all want to improve our health and wellness. But what a problem thinking of a gift that fits that category?
How do we give “health?” Not everyone wants a gym/fitness site membership. Not everyone wants gym clothes or sweat bands or gym equipment. Are you in need of suggestions?

I think of health as food and self-care. This open the door to many different ideas.

Start with deciding what personality your receiver is. Think hard about them. Maybe list one or two things that you admire or that you have in common. What do they really like or prefer?
Is that person a Go-Getter? Are they always on the run to somewhere, or running for an appointment for the family? Is their calendar always full?
Is the special person planning a vacation soon? They may have posters up around their desk.
Perhaps they just moved into a new home/apartment. New “digs” is always exciting!
Are they down with what’s happening at work lately? A bit bummed? Work burning them out? Do you think they need some TLC?

Are they a gamer? Video? Cards? Board games?
What do they do in their spare time?
What do you do when you are together?
Do they talk about their garden? Is there a love of flowers?
Do they read? How artistic are they?
Or maybe you want a “special”gift for that special co-worker who is always there for you?

Think about what makes them special? Or what interests them. Do they need a pick-up? A hug? Or just a fun gift? Maybe it is something to do together?

Once you can focus on the person, it can become easier to find a “perfect gift.” The charm of a unique gift often holds more value and memories than expensive or excessive gift giving.

People do appreciate the thoughtfulness. A personal touch is always the best. (I am leaning more toward disposable, used-up gifts. No more “things.” )

I have some suggestions for some personal gift-giving!!

With trying to keep that special person in mind,
perhaps a suggestion below might work?
Or at least to get you thinking and imagining?

I personally like creative gifts. They become more thoughtful and meaningful. I like consumable gifts. I am at that time of life where material goods are no longer needed. Consumable is the way. Or experiences shared together.

See if you have anyone on your Christmas list that might fit into the below categories. (I’m trying to open up your creativity.)

Some people are like the Energizer Bunny: Is your friend always on the go! Does it seem like their calendar is always full and they are never home?

An “energizer bunny” needs fuel and snacks. Often, stopping at a fast food place is not preferred. Sometimes, there isn’t enough time to wait in line.
Start with a “goodie box.” There are some pretty boxes or thermal bags available. They will contain your gift. These make it easy to store in the car or van. Add a thermal cup for hot or cold drinks. Don’t forget some winter napkins, or perhaps some moist wipes? Sometimes even adding a plastic knife or fork or spoon is helpful.

I am a thirsty gal. I always have a drink with me. My drink of choice is the Energizing Tea¹ and my favorite flavor is Elderberry. Just enough caffeine, 70 mg, to keep me going without jitters. I enjoy this hot or cold. But I don’t drink it after supper due to the caffeine.
I no longer drink pop or fizzy drinks. No more colas. I’m opting for more healthy drinks, with less sugars.
Sustained Energy Boost² is another great product with just the right amount of caffeine (100 mg.) It can be served hot or cold. Contains natural ingredients including Chardonnay Grape Seed Extract. That sounds special! It is available in grapefruit (refreshing) and raspberry natural flavors.
To give a comparison: Starbucks Black unsweetened cold coffee: 195 mg of caffeine to which you add sugars as their coffee can be bitter. And no health benefits. Coca-Cola Energy – regular or zero – 114 mg of caffeine, and not health benefits.)
Maybe add to the box some snacks to be there when she is running, and running out of time, and getting hungry. Snacks for the car? Meal-in-a-bar or Snack bars from Shaklee.³ Great flavors to choose from. Chocolate and even peanut butter, or blueberry. All with good protein and low sugars. Great to keep in the car for eating healthy on the go.

Does your special person have a Vacation planned? A dreamer of sun and fun? Has your special person talked about their upcoming plans for weeks now? You can zero in on the fun with some take-alongs for their travels.

Are they planning a winter vacation? Hitting the slopes or the beach? Give them a tube of Sunscreen SPF 30 ⁴that protects your skin and nourishes it too! You need sunscreen especially in the snow!
Don’t forget to protect the lips: Renew Lip Serum⁵ is age-defying and great hydration for their lips.
Hydrate⁶ is another product to include to …keep the vacationer hydrated. Two flavors: Orange and lemon/lime.
Add a travel mug; Maybe add mittens if going cold; or a fun hat if going warm.
There are after-sun care lotions or creams. I love the Renew Body Serum⁷ for a great re-hydrator for parched/sun-kissed/dry skin. This serum also contains hylauronic acid for tone and texture. Wonderful additive that you will see the difference in your skin!
With these gifts, you will be traveling with them as they think of you when they use them!

New Homeowner! Congratulations! It doesn’t have to be a house. It can be an apartment. Perhaps an RV or a condo? My neighbor has a house boat! A New Home is a New Home! And it is exciting! Another chapter in their lives.

A bottle of bubbly for sure to congratulate. Remember there are non-alcoholic bubbly drinks too.
Add the Get Clean Green Cleaning basket⁸. This basket is full of All the cleaning products that new home will ever need. And they are All chemical free.
Refills will save the new homeowner money to buy the extra items for the new house.
Start the new homeowner on a chemical-free (as well as can be managed) free home! Don’t forget the bubbly and maybe two glasses? You could also add a Welcome Mat?

Today working “9-to-5” today can be stressful and at times difficult. Is your special person feeling over-worked and under-paid! Perhaps maybe feeling a bit unloved… And it doesn’t have to be work-related. Stress can really be a heavy load.
The gift I’m suggesting provides that special person with a good relaxing time in the bath. It can even be enjoyed in the shower. This is suitable for any age!
I start with Basic H2⁹ in the bathtub. (yup from Get Clean line of cleaners as it is pH balanced) Basic H2 can produce bubbles in the tub and also eliminate the bathtub ring! (No chemicals here for little people.) I like the fact that getting out of the tub of warm water, my skin does not feel dried out. pH balanced.
There are several ways to wash: from cleansing bars to shower gels. Shaklee offers several great products without chemicals. I prefer the Revitalize Body Wash (revitalize the skin with nutrients and oils, leaving you feeling clean and replenished with a youthful, healthy glow.)
Finish off with a good body lotion. My recommendation: Body Ritual Trio Gift Set – Sparkling Citrus. ¹⁰ A great set for all the bath needs. This set has all the body cleanser/restorers you will need all in one!
I am betting after this wonderful bath, your special person will definitely feel the love! Maybe add a candle for scent with a calming scent.
Or you can add supplies for a pedicure or manicure. What a special in-home gift!!

Game Night is always fun! Does your special person enjoy Games? Game night gathers people together. I prefer board games as I can see the opposition’s reactions! And I love to play different ones on the same night!

Is your special person a “gammer?” Do they do board games or video? Perhaps a new game, or console. You might want to ask a family member what their next choice would be.
Or board game. This is my favorite.
Add to the gift Snack bars, Snack crisps¹¹, Energizing Soy protein balls.¹² We all love to eat when we play! Personalize with the Energizing Soy protein balls, you can create to their favorite flavor!

Gardener on your list? Does your special person like to work in their yard? Feed the birds? Grow flowers? Or just like digging in the dirt. They say digging in the dirt is getting in touch with Nature. I love it. It does make me feel good.

Basic H2¹³ is a gardeners helper. Used from farms and ranches to your individual garden plot.
Non-toxic. pH balanced for your plants and hands. I add a few drops to my watering can. It makes “water = wetter!” (that’s a chemistry thought.)
Great for cleaning out bird feeders, bird bath, gardening tools, etc. It cleans without the worry of chemical residue.
Of course add a new small plant or maybe some favorite flowering seeds. Don’t forget new Garden Gloves! New garden gloves are always needed for busy hands.

Special Co-Worker! Do you have that special co-worker who always supports you? Do they come up with great suggestions? Are you wanting to do something very different?

My suggestion here is a thermal mug full of different drink ideas. Caffeine does not have to be only found in coffee. Sometimes I think we drink it without tasting it.
Caffeine can have health benefits. Watch where the coffee bean comes from, its purity, and its processing.
All that counts towards making the caffeine beneficial.
Shaklee through Wellness Makes Cents offers caffeine in many different ways and in different strengths for different needs. (Look for another blog on coffee/caffeine/tea in the New Year. What I like about their products is the added health benefits to my drinks. And the choices. I do not miss soda pop. I do not miss flavored drinks. And I know my beverage is healthy.
Start with a pretty mug, or a thermal that will keep that precious cup of caffeine warm/hot.
Then the healthy choices: Energizing Tea¹⁴ (great flavors: 70 mg of caffeine). I like the various tea flavors. From Green tea to Peach tea! Something different than just black tea. And many of Shaklee’s teas are higher quality white or red teas.
Performance Pre-Workout Energy¹⁵ drink is another caffeinated drink: 100 mg of caffeine. Sustained Energy Boost¹⁶ drink has 2 flavors, 100 mg of caffeine.
It is suggested to not drink more than 450 mg of caffeine daily. And of course, not for kiddos under 18.
What’s special about the above caffeinated drinks? It is all about the added beneficial healthy ingredients as many have great healthy benefits other than just a stimulant.
I would encourage trying different tastes. Mix up the mug. Different flavors. Caffeine does not have to be in coffee. Sometimes, the processing of the coffee bean can result in a bitter brew. This brew is often hard to digest.
Add some good cookies to this gift. Make the “coffee break” a sweet treat. Or add the Homemade Protein balls in their favorite flavors.

Pizza King? Not all your gifts have to be all about health. I’m taking a step away as I imagine what to give a Pizza Person! I like pizza. But not always with meat/sausage. There are so many different cheeses to add to change or up-tick the flavors.

Start with a new pizza pan and pizza cutter.¹⁷ My pizza pan has served many, many, many pizzas. And when I’m serving a crowd, another pan comes in handy. (It also comes in handy baking cookies!)
Find some unique cheeses to grate or sprinkle on the pizza. Do they like olives? Oh there are so many to make this pie unique. And don’t forget sausages.
As to sauce, well maybe leave it to them; or add a jar of Ragu or your favorite ready-made. Homemade pizza by the family is a lot of fun! There are many great simple recipes to find.
Add oven gloves and plates and napkins! All set for dinner! I can almost smell your pizza!

Last suggestion: From the writer here to you:

A writer always likes a new journal¹⁸ and a special pen. I saw some fun pens at the Dollar Tree with crazy tops. I always have pen and paper with me. I do use “notes” on my phone. However, writing it down and crossing it out gives me pleasure.
Do you have a friend that likes to draw? Maybe someone who is a budding artist. A set of pencils would be greatly appreciated. Make it transportable pencils so they can draw when they want.
Find a journal with a cover that suits them. Add that special writing tool. Maybe include a box of chocolates for while they are writing or drawing! (Adding food always works!)

Most of all HAVE FUN creating! It is enjoyable to deeply consider that special person. Try to think about who they really are and what they truly like.

My suggestions may not be as personal as you want. They are meant to get you thinking of that person and how to make it Special. Change items suggested; add a personal item. Personalizing makes your gift special.

This thoughtful approach to gift-giving strengthens relationships, conveys a depth of affection and appreciation often left unsaid. In today’s world we are always in such a rush. In contrast, a standard gift, while appreciated, may lack this personal touch and become meaningless. Who wants just another box to open?

How do you want your gift to resonate? Think of how it will be used by the individual, not you. With kiddos I always want them to try so many things that really may not be of interest to them. Style matters to many people of all ages. Don’t “wish” on them. Recognize today’s person.

Recommendations:

This is a small list of suggestions. Remember to start with the person you are gifting. Not what you want to give them. But what they are interested in. Then it becomes easy to plan unique gifts. I would love to help.

Always start with maybe listing your special person’s unique characteristics.
Why they are special to you.
What it is that attracts you to their friendship?
What makes them special to you.
What is it that you like doing with them?
There is where to start. Once you can focus on what makes them special to you, you will be able to develop the gift.

Sometimes I keep a note on my phone for gifts especially when I come across that special item. Or have that ‘brain-fart’ while I’m trying to go to sleep! I write it down so I won’t forget it. Do note where you were when you thought of this. This can be invaluable tracking it down.
I have a spot in my “notes” where I add “white elephant” gifts. When I need one I can never think of one. And jot down the person or group you were thinking of when the thought went through your mind. Very helpful to track it down!

Let your creativity wander! Gifts don’t have to be very expensive to be special. They just have to mean something to the person receiving it. You can do this as I know you feel strongly about person or you wouldn’t be giving them a gift!

Have fun! The fun is in giving!

Give a gift your special person will talk about All Year! Give the gift of Love and Thought.

Merry Christmas!
And prayers for a
Healthy, Happy New Year!

Hugs! Mary

I have used a lot of products from my Wellness site. Yes, I hope you buy some. But they are there also to start you thinking. Sometimes a suggestion is all you need for your own creativity to take off!

https://wellness.maryjessen.com/

Footnotes: (where suggested products can be found)

References:

https://www.oxmag.co.uk/articles/the-importance-of-thoughtfulness-and-meaning-in-gift-giving/