Presents

gift
Culture

While it may be hard to admit, girls are some of the hardest people to shop for when putting aside clothes and makeup. And with the holiday season right around the corner, it’s definitely time to start getting the shopping done! Here are five things on every girl’s holiday list:

  1. Coffee

Whether it’s a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks or a Peppermint Mocha k-cup from Dunkin Donuts, sometimes coffee feels like it’s practically our blood. The drink is not only delicious, but it’s something to swear by when waking up for 8:30 a.m. classes and needing something to warm our hands as we brave the cold.

  1. Chapstick

With cold weather comes chapped lips and that’s fun for no one. Chapstick is one of the many simple pleasures in life that we all just can’t seem to get enough of; especially when it comes in so many yummy flavors!

  1. Chipotle

Embracing the calories is all the rage when it comes to Chipotle. What girl doesn’t like indulging in some guacamole? There’s nothing like an excuse to splurge on the love of food!

  1. Uggs

We all have to admit to owning at least one pair whether we’d like to or not. And though it may be hard to admit, this fad may just be the warmest and comfiest of them all!

  1. Yoga Pants

These might as well just be a gift from the universe itself! Yoga pants are a way of life; and a way of looking put together after rolling out of bed. These are sure to keep you comfy but also stylish when the cold weather hits.

What’s on your holiday wish list?

Image: Kevin Dooley

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Skills

The season of giving should really be year-round. We often weather storms of stress and worry, but there are certain people that provide us with much needed hope or just the right kind of advice. Showing gratitude is a healthy practice for us all (and doesn’t have to be expensive either). Here are four thank you gift ideas that your wallet will thank you for.

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1. Something Old, Something New & Something To Say Thank You

Write this out on a tag so that your celebrant knows exactly what this gift package contains. The simple rhyme is easy to follow and adds a fun touch while the mix of gifts allows you to spend your money carefully.

Here’s what I did for a best friend:

Something Old- A tattered copy of her favorite book (since she’s been wanting one to travel with)
Something New- A silver necklace
Something to Say Thank You- A handwritten note of gratitude chock-full of inside jokes

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2. Teas & Thank You

Clever titles will make any gift better. I re-used an empty jewelry box as a peek-a-boo type package and some string to keep the tea packets together. Add a nice mug and a thank you letter and your recipient is ready to steep in gratitude! This is a great option for professional settings at work or school.

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3. Jars of Light

Show appreciation for those guardians in your life. Wrap yarn around a clean jar and tie the ends snugly. Hot glue can also help keep the ends of the yarn attached to the glass. Red, orange, and yellow yarn created this gradient look. Place a small candle inside and attach a note to your homemade lantern.

Here are a few suggestions for those warm words:

“You have been a light for me lately. Thank you.”
“Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames. –Rumi”

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4. Framed Quote Art

Dollar stores and thrift stores have very affordable and eclectic frames. Grab two complementary frames and insert a quote and a picture. Song lyrics are another great option for quotes paired with a mix CD (remember those?). These decorative gifts are semi-homemade but 100% thoughtful.

Let’s consistently remember and recognize those around us who make our day-to-day easier. Simple acts of kindness can speak volumes, so let your appreciation be heard by those who matter most.

How do you say thank you?

Images: Marian Rose Bagamaspad