Skip to main content

Five Favorite Things

 With Valentine's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the "stuff" that I really like. Flowers are great, and jewelry is nice. But if you want a friend gift or something a little more unique, here are a few ideas. Perhaps this post will help you shop for the perfect gift that will become a "favorite thing."

For the Music Lover

If you are purchasing for a musician or vocalist, you have a ton of options including a guitar pick necklace or keyring to tickets for a concert. Even vintage gifts like records have made a strong comeback in the music community. Things to consider when purchasing for your musical genius: what is their favorite genre? Who is their favorite artist? Before buying that album, make sure they don't already have it.

For the Teacher

I can tell you most assuredly what many teachers DON'T need: another mug. Even though this seems like a simple, cute gift, as a teacher, I have difficulty parting with any gift from students. I have a cabinet full at home and more than enough at work. Instead, opt for body lotion or a coffee gift card. Even better, most teachers would welcome a gift certificate to Teachers Pay Teachers, which you can purchase online.

For the Bookworm

Any and all things to do with reading will satisfy your bookworm. Bookmarks, books (make sure you get a wish-list from them), and reading socks (I promise it's a thing!) are all great ideas. Personally, I love unique, practical bookmarks. Even a subscription to a rewards club for places like Barnes & Noble is a great idea; this will help that reader earn points for dollars spent on books and other items.

For the Wanderer

I love to travel, and a few great items can make traveling easier. Try a travel journal or photo album, portable battery charger, or tote bag to help your rambling roadster on their next journey. If you want something a bit more sentimental, a map with push-pins marking all the locations they have been is a great way to be a part of their adventures!

For the Trendsetter

Those who have a distinct style are usually easy to shop for. If your person is more earthy, choose a jewelry like LifeBeads, which is hand-rolled paper bead jewelry. Etsy usually has great, one-of-a-kind jewelry, too, such as my go-to earrings, H.E. Marie. Picking out clothing is not necessarily the way to go unless you are close enough to your fashionista to know specific sizes based on styles. Consider accessories like scarves and gloves for cooler seasons. Personalized beach towels, bags, and sunglasses are great for warmer weather.

At the end of the day, if there is a specific item you want, just ask for it. Our significant others, friends, and family cannot be expected to read our minds, and they will appreciate having some clear guidance on how best to shop.

These are a few of my favorite things. Happy shopping!

© 2024 Jill Cook. All rights reserved.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Feelings and Faith

Vulnerable moment: it’s been a crazy week. If I’m being honest, the last six months or more have been wrought with uncertainty and so many questions within myself about my purpose.  I’ve been in a season of transition in our family with adapting to having an independent adult child and an independent teenage son-both of whom are thriving. So my purpose as a mom has shifted into steadfast support and guidance from a distance rather than rushing to the rescue, which I know is where we should be with them. This shift has adjusted our marriage. Lyndon and I are both learning how to navigate this new territory, and I’m so grateful we have each other.  My Daddy died suddenly last year, and I am still grieving the unexpected loss and what could have been. Grief is a strange journey and differs for everyone. What I know is Christ gives me the most profound peace when I feel my turbulent heart trying to sway me. But it certainly is a sadness that is layered. Because of these major life...
Post a Comment
Read more

He’s Already Heard My Prayer

This is one of the most difficult pieces to write. My dad, Steve, passed away this morning unexpectedly. He was the “Music Man” in my world who made life a song.  Daddy was responsible for putting me on the stage. At two years old, he stood me on the altar at church so everyone could watch me sing “Victory in Jesus.”   At twelve, he was teaching me how to set up equipment and mix sound. As a teenager, we wrote songs together. His love of music is so deeply ingrained in me that I feel a piece of that is somehow missing now. Things were not always great between me and Daddy. In fact, we went for a long time without having contact with one another. I’m so grateful that God restored our relationship in his final years. Neither one of us were perfect in our relationship, but I always loved him deeply. So today, I’m heartbroken. Memories are flooding my mind, and there are so many things I still wanted us to share. I know the coming days will be filled with waves of grief and the st...
Post a Comment
Read more