“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” That’s what my good friend Buddy the Elf claims. I have a different theory: The best way to spread Christmas cheer is the gift of giving. But with the recession, college tuition and bills to pay, this act is becoming difficult to do, extinguishing the spirits of those around us. Sadly, the holiday season has become something that most aim to get through, not enjoy, as the minutes until Christmas and the thickness of our wallets begin to dwindle.
To help you readers out, I have assumed the responsibility of lifting those holiday spirits by creating my own affordable and accessible gift list. These special picks are suitable for anyone from parents to siblings, even that very special someone (lingerie not included). So, put on those Santa hats and get ready for a blast of Christmas cheer — even if you haven’t been sent a special Christmas gram from a long lost son in the North Pole.
1. Skinit, $15+, http://www.skinit.com/
This gift is great for anyone with a computer and a passion. Skinits create long lasting and reusable stickers and covers for any type of technology, whether it’s for a phone, laptop, iPod or iPad. The covers that can be ordered online include pre-made designs, logos and pictures. Personal photo can be cropped and formed into a cover as well.
2. Watch, $10+
A watch is a great gift for any man, runner, child or professional, no matter the price or appearance. Children love to feel grown up with a Dino watch on their arm, watching the time just like their parents. Runners enjoy having the ability to keep track of time and distance, while a professional would prefer to be at work on time while still looking stylish or presentable.
3. No-Sew Fleece Blanket, $15-40, http://www.joann.com, http://www.projectlinus.org/patterns/pdf/NoSewFB.pdf
On cold winter days or chilly summer afternoons a great blanket is always a must. While you could always buy a blanket with a favorite sports team logo on it, why not make one? And for those of you who aren’t comfortable sewing, no worries: For this gift no needle is needed. To make a no-sew fleece blanket, head to your local craft store and pick out about a yard or two of different fabrics (one solid and one design looks best. Jo-Anne Fabrics & Other Craft Stores offers pre-selected combinations). Follow the directions on the pre-made package or from the Project Linus link above and presto — you’ve got a blanket worthy of any warm-seeking patron in about four hours.
4. Agloves, $18, http://www.agloves.com
Agloves are unlike any other. Each glove has microscopic balls of silver embedded in the fabric, which allows smart phone users to utilize touch screens in cold weather without the need to remove gloves and risk red fingers. Made out of bamboo and other natural products, the Agloves are earth friendly while supporting their purpose of recreational and athletic use.
5. Nostalgic picture frame
Find any picture frame on sale; gather up the family, friends or siblings; and huddle together to capture one amazing shot. There’s a catch, though: The picture has to mirror an old picture that everyone was in together. This includes poses, clothes and faces. It’s a great present for a childhood friend that’s far away, grandparents or anyone in the family.
