From A Woman's Perspective: December 7th, 2024 "Clutter-Free-Holiday Gift Ideas- Part Two"

Clutter-Free-Holiday Gift Ideas- Part Two
 

Good morning, Marilyn. Are you starting to get excited about the holidays? I know I am. The best part will be taking time from the busy workaday world and spending it instead with the people I love. We’ll get to renew our connections around food, a bit of drink, and hopefully a lot of spontaneously-created music. Of course, there will also be a gift exchange as is our tradition. Increasingly, however, I am less about “stuff” and more about “experiences.” 

In that spirit, I am continuing with last week’s topic of clutter-free holiday gift ideas. These are ideas you will be happy to give or receive. Feel free to share with your kids and grandchildren.

1. Service coupons- Speaking of children, when my four girls were little, they would often give me service coupons. “This coupon is good for one hug” or “This coupon is good for one dog walk.” Remember those? An update on this idea is perfect for the college student or young adult in your life who is short on money, but long on energy. Maybe they could volunteer to help you to haul boxes for sorting from the garage, or run errands like doing a charity donation or dump run. Asking for acts of service as a gift has the added benefit of spending time with that very, very busy young person. 
    
2. Luxury consumables - For me it would be L’occitane hand cream or artisanal chocolate truffles. Maybe for you it’s the real Cadbury’s chocolate or Welsh tea that can only be gotten from a specialty store. Dare I suggest that bottle of 12-year old single malt Scotch? While this is technically more stuff coming into your home, don’t worry because they won’t be around for long! Let them know about the splurges you wouldn’t splurge on yourself. 
    
3. Non-smart phone - I am reluctant to call these “dumb phones” but old-style flip phones with functionality limited to just making phone calls or sending texts are making a resurgence, not only for seniors, but for anyone who is deliberately choosing to limit their time on the internet. There are even companies making senior-friendly models with large displays, a screen that stays on, and pay-as-you-go options. If you’re the type that struggles with the TV remote AND wants to stay in touch, this might be a great item to add to your wish list. 
    
4. Restaurant gift cards - These are a perennial favourite no matter your age. It’s great to have a meal on somebody else’s tab when you don’t feel like cooking. Even better is a gift card to restaurants that deliver. With secure porch delivery options, no one even needs to know that you’re eating dinner in your bath robe!
    
5. Gift certificate for a professional organizer or handyman - Wow! Wouldn’t that be a dream come true? A rentable helper for an afternoon or to tackle that “honey do” list. You can book professional service providers for a usual minimum of 3 hours, and rates can be surprisingly affordable.You supply the list and maybe the supplies, and they provide the labour - all without bothering your adult children.
    
6. Bird watching starter pack - This has been a gift I have given, and is perfect for a senior with limited mobility but who has windows overlooking a yard or garden. Start with an Ontario bird species book, binoculars, feeder and seed to spark new or renewed interest in the great outdoors. I know this sounds like a bunch of stuff coming into your house, but at least half the paraphernalia will be outside. Win!
    
7. Flower subscription - I just recently discovered that this was even a thing. With a flower subscription, a fresh new flower arrangement is delivered at pre-set intervals. Wouldn’t that be a lovely pick-me-up to have a splash of colour and beauty to look forward to periodically? Even better, there are subscription services that send the flowers and the instructions to make your own arrangement. A craft and a gift all in one!
    
8. Personalized photo calendar - I’ve seen these in my various clients’ homes: an annual calendar with a different family photo inserted into each month. These are a lovely way to be reminded of your family AND your appointments at the same time. 
   
   Here are 5 more good ideas to share:
9. Uber/Lyft transportation gift card
    
10. Pre-made meal service subscription
     
11. Gift certificate for a pedicure - both men and women can benefit by professional attention to the tootsies
     
12. Electric toothbrush - connection between oral health and heart health
     
13. Arranging for a day trip together

    
    Marilyn, I have at least 5 more good ideas to share, but our listeners are going to have to visit our website, smartrealtysolution.com and go to the blog page to read them for themselves. Time is ticking and none of us is getting any younger. Thank you for sharing your space with me, Marilyn. And thank you to the listeners for inviting us into their homes each week. If ever you’d like to contact me, I can be reached at 416-460-5636.

    That’s it for this week, Marilyn. My name is Sharon Parenteau and these have been your SMART Realty Solutions.
    
    

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