Seeking non "stuff" Christmas gift ideas...

[Dee*Jay]

So every year my family sends me all sorts of random stuff for Christmas. My dad is pretty good about buying me what I ask for (as opposed to my mother--god only knows what she's thinking with the things she picks out... ), but he insists that I choose *something,* and it can't be a gift card. The move from Chicago to KC this summer proved to me how much "stuff" I absolutely do not need any more of!!! So I'm looking for non "stuff" gift ideas. An additional challenge is that I am not comfortable asking for something more than $100. All I can think of so far is something like wine, but he also likes to get it himself, wrap it, and then ship it (seriously--what's wrong with my family?!? Amazon is perfectly valid!). I'm also not completely opposed to *practical* gifts of things that I really want, but all I can come up with in that regard is a new workout bra ("Yah, um, hi Dad... can you buy me a BRA for Christmas?"!!!)

PLEASE give me some ideas to pass on... or else who knows what I'll end up with--yet again.

 

[MichelleCarmen]

I can relate as we've moved soooo many times that I have an aversion to buying stuff unless it has some usefulness...as a result, I'm starting to see certain things needing to be replaced and now know which makes sense to buy lots of... Towels, for example. Is that too lame of a gift? lol Even though that is "stuff," they can be used and if you move again, you can wrap your breakables up in them hahaha Ummm... or I'd say a couple of nice hard cover books that you can enjoy? A new set of sheets?

Those are all stuff, but they have a) an actual use, and b) something your dad can wrap up with ease.

Another thing would be high-quality candles! They're perfect holiday gifts and they can be used up and not take up permanent space.

 

[Skippy123]

Well one time my in laws asked me what i wanted and they spend a lot on me so I told them the fruit of the month club!!!! Ummmm, they told me no, because I probably won't eat all the fruit. I felt like saying, well don't ask me than! lol How about fruit of the month? I love fruit, do you?

 

[Dee*Jay]

Seriously MC, I was just HORRIFIED by all the “stuff” during that move, and I’m glad someone else understands! And you and I think a lot alike. ..

I whittled down my (ridiculously massive) towel collection to just the cream ones during the course of the move, and no, that’s not a lame gift at all! Actually, I wouldn’t mind a couple of large black towels to keep in the cars and sit on when I wear my sweaty workout clothes home from the gym, so that’s an idea.

I had them buy me sheets last year, LOL, and an electric blanket the year before that.

I don’t really burn candles, as evidenced by the two dozen or so giant Yankee Candles I got at Costco a few years ago and am still hauling around with me. Hm. Maybe I will light one up this weekend. That may be an option.

Those are good ideas though—please keep ‘em coming!

And it just came to me that I would like a cordless vacuum. I had one for several years that was great, but it finally crapped out. Now that I live on one floor it’s probably not as much of a priority, but my hoover weight about a ton and it’s a pain to drag around with the cord.

ACK – here I am trying to think of non-stuff and so far I’ve come with towels and a vacuum cleaner…!

 

[Dee*Jay]

Skippy, I do love fruit, but I wonder if my dad would balk because of the price. Not that overall cost, but when he does the math I will turn out to be a couple of bucks per apple, or something like that, and that would drive him over the edge...

Good idea though--I'm going to see if I can find a reasonably priced option on the internet becuase I definitely would eat it!

 

[StacylikesSparkles]

As a bridal shower gift, my Mom bought me a cooking class gift certificate and I cannot wait to use it! I totally don't like gift cards, but this was the perfect thing because she just paid for a class and I get to pick out the one I want to attend. I think even for a moderately skilled cook (that's me, I think) it's always helpful to learn new tricks or cooking styles...I can't wait to do it AND it's not stuff!

 

[zoebartlett]

Good topic! I was just thinking about this, actually. We don't need any more stuff either and my mom's been asking what we'd like for Christmas. My husband and I prefer to go places (shows, concerts, cities, etc.) rather than get THINGS, which we have enough of! Here are a few ideas:

A gift card to a local restaurant you've been wanting to try.

Sheets and blankets (oops, saw it was already mentioned). Yes, these are probably considered stuff but they're very practical.

A gift card (homemade or not) to a local attraction that might be new for you in your new city (I mention this because my parents gave us a homemade gift card to the Biltmore estate when we lived in NC a few years ago. They took care of making reservations for the tour and dinner. All my husband and I had to do was show up. We paid for our hotel but the rest of the getaway was on my parents. We got to explore our new state by doing something fun, and it was a thoughtful gift that we still talk about.)

Tickets to a show/concert

A donation made to your favorite charity or animal shelter

Books downloaded to your Kindle or Nook, if you have one (or an Amazon/Barnes and Noble gift card for this purpose). You'd get the enjoyment of a book without having to store it at home.

 

[miraclesrule]

I choose a cordless vacuum last year and am so glad I did. It's perfect for the car, and after my grandkids have been over. It's also great for animal hair.

I would try to think of something for your new car. You absolutely want something to cover the seat belt and seat after working out. I use a stupid hand towel to try to keep the sweat off my seat belt after Bikram. It's just plain nasty. Have you thought about a license plate holder that is worthy of your new ride? (I apologize for not reading the entire Welcome the Baby thread and this was mentioned).

It's so hard to think of something on the spot when asked. I always pass and then remember to jot down things that I subsequently say "Oh I wish I had______________" Then I come up with a wishlist as a reminder.

 

[Dee*Jay]

Stacy, I got the XH a cooking class for Christmas one year and he LOVED it! Unfortunately I don’t so do much as boil water, and I plan on keeping it that way, but maybe there is another type of class I can take… hm… must think that one over!

Zoe, the books downloaded to my Kindle is a good idea! I will have to peruse what’s out now and suggest that to them. I wonder if he could figure out the technology behind that…? Dad is not very computer savvy, but how hard could it be, right?

Miracles, there’s no way I he!! I could tell my family I just bought a new 911. They would go into apoplectic shock from the dollar value… Sad, because I was thinking some new rubber floor mats would be nice, LOL! The cordless vac is sounding better and better. Plus, dad could get it at Walmat—his absolute favorite place to shop!

You guys are all so clever!

 

[Haven]

We don't like having a lot of stuff and everyone knows this, so I totally feel for you!

The first thing I want to suggest is a no-gift policy for adults. We instituted that with our families years ago, and everyone was really grateful. We buy gifts for the kids in the family, but not for other adults. (I mean seriously, how many sweaters does my BIL need?)

My mom, however, insists on giving us gifts so when pressed we ask her to donate what she would spend to a local charity.

Consumables make great gifts. I know you already mentioned wine. Are there other luxury-type items for your kitchen that you wouldn't buy for yourself, but that you'd love to use if you had them? I'm thinking of Williams Sonoma's consumables stuff, like flavored oils or specialty rubs. (Why does this sound like it could be a recommendation for personal massage items??? ) I love specialty coffees, too.

Is there anything in your home that you have, but that you'd like to upgrade or change out? We buy a lot of handmade ceramics for my mom, so if we give her a new platter she'll donate an old platter. Same for bowls, mugs, etc.

Ooh, thinking about swapping new stuff for old, what about some luxurious throw blankets? We splurged on an awesome Restoration Hardware blanket when we bought our sofa, and I am in love with it. I wouldn't normally spend close to $100 on a throw, but this thing is heavenly.

 

[zoebartlett]

Okay, this may sound like a lame gift but it's practical and could be very useful if needed: an emergency car kit (you don't have to tell your parents it could be for your new car. By the way, how could you keep that from them?! I mean, I know why you are, but that's something I'd want to immedately tell my parents just because it's cool!

Actual books - you could always donate them when you're finished reading.

A year's pass to a museum (I have no idea if that would be under the limit you mentioned though.)

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

How about a donation in your name? Salvation Army? Food Bank?

cheers--Sharon

 

[zoebartlett]

Haven, my husband tried to institute a "no gifts" policy for his family but they insist on doing SOMETHING. He's the youngest of 5, so buying something for everyone (especially when you don't know someone that well!) was getting ridiculous. They decided a few years ago to change things up and do a Yankee swap, so now each person gets one gift. It's better than it was but my husband and I wish we'd stop that too. Sometimes we end up with a random item or two that just get tossed out when we get home. (Although I got a nice scarf last year. That was a keeper.)

Sorry to threadjack, Dee Jay!

 

[Haven]

Haven, my husband tried to institute a "no gifts" policy for his family but they insist on doing SOMETHING. He's the youngest of 5, so buying something for everyone (especially when you don't know someone that well!) was getting ridiculous. They decided a few years ago to change things up and do a Yankee swap, so now each person gets one gift. It's better than it was but my husband and I wish we'd stop that too. Sometimes we end up with a random item or two that just get tossed out when we get home. (Although I got a nice scarf last year. That was a keeper.)

Sorry to threadjack, Dee Jay!

Yeah, the no-gifts thing didn't work with my mom and my FIL. I like giving them gifts, though, so it's okay. But to give gifts to every adult in the family? INSANE.

One of DH's first cousins was a bit upset at the idea of no adult gifts, so I was just straight with her and I said, "You have three kids. Your brother has two kids. My BIL has two kids. We love buying gifts for your kids, but to buy gifts for all six parents, too, is too much. So, if you'd like we could skip the gifts for the kids and give gifts only for adults. We are only willing to do one or the other. You decide.

I mean, DH and I don't even exchange gifts! If we see something we want to give as a gift we just buy it and give it at a random time, but we don't do gifts for birthdays and holidays. We write love letters, which is so much more fun. Maybe I'll offer to write love letters to the adults who want gifts.

 

[iLander]

Honestly, I don't care how much stuff you have (I have tons, it took 2 1/2 semi's to move us last time!) these cashmere socks are awesome!

They're 100% cashmere bed socks, http://www.sierratradingpost.com/johnstons-of-elgin-cashmere-bed-socks-for-women~p~1568w/

A lot of times, people like to wrap and send gifts because it's just not "the holiday season" without it. It's part of their process, and you kinda have to understand that.

Try the socks, this is the best price on the planet for this particular Scottish brand.

 

[Haven]

Honestly, I don't care how much stuff you have (I have tons, it took 2 1/2 semi's to move us last time!) these cashmere socks are awesome!

They're 100% cashmere bed socks, http://www.sierratradingpost.com/johnstons-of-elgin-cashmere-bed-socks-for-women~p~1568w/

A lot of times, people like to wrap and send gifts because it's just not "the holiday season" without it. It's part of their process, and you kinda have to understand that.

Try the socks, this is the best price on the planet for this particular Scottish brand.

Those socks look divine!

If someone *really* needs to give gifts, and if it's because they feel the need to wrap and send something, I would suggest buying, wrapping, and sending gifts to shelters during the holiday season. My school does a big gift drive for a local battered women's shelter, and we even get wish lists from families so individuals can sponsor a family. We wrap the gifts, deliver them, and have a big party while the moms and kids unwrap their presents. It's a lot of fun, and it definitely puts me in a holiday spirit. I think this is something many different organizations do, and heaven knows homeless or displaced individuals could use the gifts more than most of us.

 

[mogster]

Perhaps this is too practical, but how about a subscription to something like Netflix or a membership somewhere. You mentioned that you shop at Costco -- maybe he could gift you next year's membership?

 

[Dee*Jay]

I LOVE the idea of donations... but they won't do that. They would do it ALONG WITH whatever else they buy, but not in lieu of.

Subscriptions are a good idea, and just last year I hit on the idea and had them get me two magazine subscriptions (that I now don't have time to read... )

Now the EMERGENCY CAR KIT - *BRILLIANT*! Yes, I am going to ask for that!

And I know it's crazy that I can't tell them about Junior, but trust me... I really can't... (I Never wore my upgraded engagement ring around them, and I'm pretty sure they think my Rolex is a fake. You know how they say every family is disfunctional in some way? Well, we are disfunctional in a WHOLE LOTTA WAYS! )

I'm also still excited about the cordless vacuum. Do you think I can get away with not vacuuming between now and Christmas?

There are more ideas here I need to respond to, but I have to zip off. I'll be back in a little while!

 

[canuk-gal]

I LOVE the idea of donations... but they won't do that. They would do it ALONG WITH whatever else they buy, but not in lieu of.

Subscriptions are a good idea, and just last year I hit on the idea and had them get me two magazine subscriptions (that I now don't have time to read... )

Now the EMERGENCY CAR KIT - *BRILLIANT*! Yes, I am going to ask for that!

And I know it's crazy that I can't tell them about Junior, but trust me... I really can't... (I Never wore my upgraded engagement ring around them, and I'm pretty sure they think my Rolex is a fake. You know how they say every family is disfunctional in some way? Well, we are disfunctional in a WHOLE LOTTA WAYS! )

I'm also still excited about the cordless vacuum. Do you think I can get away with not vacuuming between now and Christmas?

There are more ideas here I need to respond to, but I have to zip off. I'll be back in a little while!

HI:

Buy Dyson! I love Dyson! They have excellent best products and greatest customer service ever! Buy Dyson!

No I am not a product rep....but BUY...did I say....Dyson???

cheers--Sharon

 

[minousbijoux]

Good topic!
A donation made to your favorite charity or animal shelter

I was thinking this exactly. Or other donations like "buying" animals to be given to families in certain countries, or international micro-enterprise loan organizations, or would these be considered not celebrating his daughter enough and he really wants to give YOU something?

 

[minousbijoux]

Whoops, next time I'll finish the thread before I post...

 

[madelise]

I wish asking for "a year's worth of toilet paper" or any other necessity was considered holiday appropriate.

 

[Dee*Jay]

I wish asking for "a year's worth of toilet paper" or any other necessity was considered holiday appropriate.

Madelise -- we are sisters separated at birth! I swear, I would LOVE to give them a list of shampoo, body wash, razors, kleenex, etc., and tell them to go to the local Wallgreens and have at it!!!

The emergency car kit might have been swept out from under me in terms of an idea BTW becuase a friend mentioned that another friend (who is the same person who got me an 85 piece tool kit--one of the best gifts EVER!--for my 40th birthday) *may* already be going down that path. DAMN.

And as I sit here at the dining room table in my cold apartment those *socks* are looking pretty good right now!

 

[Dee*Jay]

THREADJACK WARNING (hey, it's my thread, I'm allowed to jack it!):

HAVEN, whatever happend to your idea about donating bling? I thought it was a great concept, but I don't know if it went anywhere beyond our thread here. All this discussion of donations got me thinking about it again.

 

[zoebartlett]

You have two cars now so although your friend might get you one car kit, you'll need a second one.

 

[Dee*Jay]

You have two cars now so although your friend might get you one car kit, you'll need a second one.

Ha! Great idea, but unfortunately I've already got a kit in the SUV. And for REAL emergencies, I've got roadside assistance! Seriously, nobody wants ME changing a tire or attempting to jump a battery--I'd probably electrocute my damn self!

 

[Haven]

THREADJACK WARNING (hey, it's my thread, I'm allowed to jack it!):

HAVEN, whatever happend to your idea about donating bling? I thought it was a great concept, but I don't know if it went anywhere beyond our thread here. All this discussion of donations got me thinking about it again.

I'm still working on the idea, but it needs some tweaks and I haven't had time to really work them through. I recently befriended a woman who is an attorney and an animal activist, so she's my go-to person for working out the legal kinks with the idea. We shall see! I'm not going to bring the idea to my jeweler until it's more concrete, but I will report back here once I do!

I'm sad for you that you can't share your new baby with your family. At least you can share it with your PS family!

 

[miraclesrule]

Hahahahaha, I WAS going to suggest an emergency car kit for the trunk but thought for sure you would think I was insane for even suggesting that Jr. could possibly break down on some dark lonely highway. I didn't want to curse ya....

I realize now that I neglected to consider you might run out of gas. :::::ducking and dodging:::::::

 

[madelise]

I wish asking for "a year's worth of toilet paper" or any other necessity was considered holiday appropriate.

Madelise -- we are sisters separated at birth! I swear, I would LOVE to give them a list of shampoo, body wash, razors, kleenex, etc., and tell them to go to the local Wallgreens and have at it!!!

Since we're kin, you'll let me borrow that sweet ride of yours, right?

But yes, I hate making trips to purchase ANYTHING since I hate paying for stuff (and also because I HATE people of Walmart).. and when I do finally go to stock up on all those said items, and toothpaste, face wash, dog food.. I end up spending a few hundred all on one spot! A year's supply of toilet paper would definitely be well received on my end! GIMME TOILET PAPER!




Speaking of practical items and Christmas.. I did a 12 Days of Christmas for SO last year, and had him open up a box every day for 12 days. I had a box of T-Shirts, undershirts, socks, those Costco Gold and Silver movie ticket certificates… HE LOVED IT. And I loved that he finally got to wear some socks without holes in them. I'm probably going to gift him similarly practical items this year.

 

[Dee*Jay]

Haven, keep us posted on any progress because I am very interested in your idea.

Miracles, actually, I DID run out of gas once! I was in my first car (a Pontiac Fiero) and my grandmother was with me on the turnpike in Pennsylvania. It was acting badly, so I pulled over to the side of the road and all the sudden the thing sputtered out and just *died*. We were like WTF? I had just gotten it that week! Well... we did quite a bit of driving that week and... um... never put any gas in it. Once we realized what was wrong we laughed like hell!

Madelise, I SWEAR you and I are the same person!!! Every hear I would get the XH similar practical things (it was the only time his boxers every got replaced) and he was always so happy. I was like, Honey, why don't you just go down to Macy's and buy YOURSELF some boxer shorts during the year? But no...!