Smart holiday gift ideas that make busy lives easier

(ARA) – As the holiday season approaches, many people start wondering how they’re going to get everything done. From shopping for gifts and decorating the house to hosting parties and visiting relatives – and more – the list feels endless. And adding all of these things to an already hectic lifestyle can seem next to impossible.

However, the important thing to remember, even in the rush to get everything done, is that the holidays are all about sharing time with those you love. That’s why it’s important to find ways to cut back on your own stress levels and focus on the joy of the season.

Little organizational efforts, like making a well-planned shopping list, can cut back on the amount of time you waste and minimize the stressful search for a last-minute gift.

While you’re thinking about keeping your own stress to a minimum, use that same thought in looking for gifts. Opting for presents that blend the practical and the enjoyable will ensure that there are plenty of smiles as gifts are opened. Everyone – even those who are notoriously hard to shop for – can enjoy a gift that will make their lives a little bit easier. To start your holiday shopping, consider these helpful hints from Farberware.

Health conscious

Everyone aspires to live a healthier lifestyle – just look at the most popular New Year’s resolutions if you need confirmation. Giving a gift that makes a more health-conscious way of life easier is something that anyone can appreciate. A high-quality 10-speed blender is a useful tool for making smoothies and soups that incorporate the fruits and vegetables essential to a healthy diet. The Farberware brand high-wattage models with 5 pre-programmed settings can whip up nutritious and easy treats in just minutes.

Other health-boosting ideas might be membership to a gym, or passes to fitness classes – it’s increasingly easy to find classes like yoga that are tailored to families too.

Gourmet gifts

Is there anyone who doesn’t love a great home-cooked meal? The flavors and comforts of home stick with us for years, so giving gifts that take cooking to the next level are always welcome. Creating those meals can take a lot of time and effort, so put items that help with preparation on your list. For instance, a 12-cup food processor like those from Farberware will make chopping, shredding and slicing a snap, and eliminates a lot of work. Plus its 4-cup nested work bowl makes small kitchen tasks a breeze.

For those who really love to cook, give the gift of a cooking class experience. They can learn to create new dishes, study an unfamiliar cuisine or even sharpen their knife skills.

On the go

Most people’s schedules are packed, and they often find themselves rushing through the day without taking time for themselves and what they enjoy. By giving gifts that both help them through their daily routine and provide a bit of pleasure, your presents will do double duty. To get their day started on the right note, a programmable coffee and tea maker with automatic brewing can give them a morning boost of their favorite beverage. With two specialized permanent filters for coffee grinds and tea leaves, they never have to sacrifice their favorite cup of fresh brew. Supplement it with a tasteful travel mug, and you’ll be sending them out the door with a smile on their face.

You can also encourage them to spend some quality time on their own by giving a gift like a massage or spa gift certificate. Offer to help set the appointment so it doesn’t get lost on their to-do list.

Shopping for the holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful. Look for inspiration in the things your friends and family love to do and how you can make their lives simpler. You can find these fabulous Farberware gift ideas exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide for only $59.88 each. Visit www.farberwareproducts.com for more information on all your gift-giving needs.

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Give your loved one the opportunity to make 30 bottles of award-winning wine.

Holiday Shopping Tips:

(NC)—It is, indeed, easy to buy a bottle of red or white for the wine buff in your life – but has that become a bit too predictable?

This year, here’s a way to add some unusual and unexpected fun to the picture: Give your loved one the opportunity to make 30 bottles of award-winning wine instead. The better wine kits sold today actually source 100 percent pure, varietal grape juice from some of the world’s premier vineyards.

“This is why so many of the wines in our collections win excellence awards,” says Chris Staresinic at RJ Spagnols. “That information and more is posted with each selection when you review the list of such universal favourites as Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, Chianti, Pino Grigio, and many more.

“The quality of homemade wine can be totally dependable – so for a dazzling, top-of-the-line gift, you can’t go wrong with a kit selection from either the En Primeur, Cellar Classic Winery Series, or Cru Select series.”

While on the site, (www.spagnols.com) you can also find the most convenient winemaking shops near you. These locations sell the kits – and also offer an optional service to make the wine for you, complete with an invitation to help with the bottling. Either way, the costs of making one’s own wine are virtually cut in half. Here’s a snapshot of just a few choices:

• En Primeur: Each of the 10 wines harvested for this collection apply the proprietary process of gently drying crushed, whole, varietal grape skins. This preserves the fresh vineyard flavour and adds delightful deep hues, lush body, a subtle bouquet, or a lingering finish to the select red wines.

• Cru Select: From the full-bodied and robust, to the soft and refined, this collection is made to exacting standards. With pure varietal grape juice plus European and Australian grape concentrates, many of the wine kits include toasted oak chips to impart rich, succulent shades of oak and smokey vanilla.

• Cellar Classic: Within six weeks, this series produces brilliantly clear wine, bursting with full aromas and flavours. As the wine ages, the character continues to mature. The red wines, for example, are produced by fermenting grape juice on varietal-specific crushed grape skins, seeds, and stems. This extracts deep colour, chewy tannins, tantalizing flavours and complex aromas to produce richly structured wines.

- News Canada

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• AeroGarden Space Saver – mom can enjoy the same fresh herbs in the kitchen that she loves to grow in the garden. This little ‘garden’ requires no dirt and automatic alerts signal when more water and nutrients are needed.

• Family Communication Centre – somehow she always manages to keep everyone’s schedules on-track, but this device helps to keep busy families connected. Write comments on the erasable whiteboard, post sticky notes and record audio and video messages on the 7 inch LCD frame.

• Power Tools – the Mastercraft Power Xchange line, a family of versatile power tools, can all be interchanged with one, 18 V battery. Help dad build up his tool collection without buying a battery and charger every time.

• Seat Cushions – the New Year is sure to be hectic with errands and activities. With heating technology to sooth lower back pain and massage features to relieve stress, innovative seat cushions for the car provide dad with the ultimate in driving comfort.

• Mini Camcorders – they have been deemed the ‘best years of their lives’ and now they can capture all the action. Compact camcorders allow teens to re-live memories for years to come.

• GPS System – ensure your new driver can always find their way around. Featuring preloaded maps, navigating any address within Canada and the U.S. has never been easier.

• Kids’ Video Camera – kids start early these days so encourage your budding photographer or next Spielberg to pursue their dreams with a durable camcorder that records video and captures stills.

• GT Snow Racer – traditional fun, with a modern twist, the new GT racers feature an improved seat design and steering mechanism that provides ultimate fun on the slopes.

- News Canada

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• The Garmin NUVI GPS systems that will ensure the men on your list will never have to ask for directions again.

• Allow him to dream in high-definition this Christmas with the new Sony Bravia V-Series LCD HDTV.

• For the boy at heart, the XBOX 360 Arcade Bundle will be a big hit with him, and will provide hours of entertainment.

• The Sears exclusive Official Hockey Night in Canada Air-Powered Rod Hockey Table is the perfect gift for any hockey fanatic on your list.

• Does he have a collection of watches? Then a watch box is practical gift for him, allowing him to store up to 5 watches in a lined and domed case.

• The Philips Rechargeable 7 in 1 Grooming Kit that uses steel/wave blade technology is sure to give him that up-close micro shave that he’s looking for. This unit is washable and includes universal voltage so he can take it with him wherever he goes.

• For the handy man in your life, the Craftsman 14-amp laser saw makes a great gift! A great value at $99.97, this saw comes with 5000 rpm and has the Laser Trac laser guide.

• New chic European fashions are also available for the GQ men on your list. The ‘John Devin’ apparel collection includes a variety of items, from: suits, jackets, denim, sweaters and more.

At Sears, you can do your holiday shopping anyway you want – through the Sears Wish Book, online at www.sears.ca or at Sears stores nationwide.

- News Canada

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• Does she enjoy a nice cup of specialty coffee? Then a Starbucks gift set is the perfect gift for her. A great faux leather chest is filled with Starbucks favourites including: mug, TAZO tea, coffee and biscotti.

• Pamper your special lady this holiday with a Conair Bubbling Foot Bath that combines heat, vibration, bubbles and a massage attachment to provide her with a spa experience in the comfort of her own home.

• Why not get her a lavish pair of Jessica satin pajamas, available in a variety of rich hues, as well as plus sizes.

• Is she a health conscious foodie? Then the Breville Ikon 5-speed Juice Fountain is just what she wants and needs. Able to make 1L of healthy juice with a built-in filter, she will be able to make a fresh, healthy drink in no time.

• Allow her to capture all of the wonderful moments this holiday, with a great digital camera, choose from a number of trusted brands including Sony, Canon, Fuji, Samsung and more. Or, why not get her a digital picture frame to display her favourite moments and memories from the holidays?

• Bedazzle her this holiday with a Jessica Black & White Diamond Ring Set. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and this ring with rare black diamonds will be sure to put a smile on her face, and create holiday shinning brilliance to last a lifetime.

• If she’s a fashionista, why not get her something from the new Flashlights collection, straight from the streets of Europe. Choose from tops, pants, dresses, outerwear and more!

• Have a larger budget? The iGO GT2 Power-Assisted Electric Scooter is perfect for the environmentally-conscious woman in your life. The 500-watt and powerful 48-volt scooter is fully charged and ready-to-go in only 4-6 hrs.

Still having trouble picking the perfect gift? Get her a Sears gift card, and let her select her own great gift.

- News Canada

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• The Busy Cook – “Today’s home chef is becoming more health conscious,” says Sauvé-Nicholls. “So an indoor grill is the ideal gift for someone who loves to cook but doesn’t always have the time to make the healthiest food choices.” Sauvé-Nicholls also says men will appreciate an indoor grill. “They’re the ideal bachelor pad gift.”

• The Multi-tasker – “The product that is just flying off the shelves for us this year is surprisingly, a can opener,” says Sauvé-Nicholls. The OpenStation is no regular can opener though she says. It includes three tools and opens six types of packaging in a flash. From hard-plastic “clamshell” style packaging to glass bottle caps, plastic bottle lids and pop-top cans, the product is ideal for busy kitchens.

• The Entertainer – Sauvé-Nicholls says today’s high-tech slow cookers are an excellent choice for that someone who always shows up with food for the party and loves to entertain at home. Look for units that provide added features a real foodie will fall for like gasket sealed lids, lid latch, travel case, recipe tags and stoneware that can be removed for serving. “Choose the quart size that is most appropriate for their lifestyle,” says Sauvé-Nicholls. “A seven quart is perfect for entertaining big groups.”

More gift ideas can be found online at www.hamiltonbeach.ca.

- News Canada

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Nothing brings out the brilliance of the season more than the shimmer of holiday decor.

The holiday season is a memorable time associated with fun, family and lots of presents. As you consider what to give the people on your gift list, why not try something different this year?

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores suggests, “Let’s make Christmas!” Handmade gifts are a trend across the country due to their highly personal nature and the fact that they often cost less than store bought items.

“This holiday, forget about that boring or expensive store-bought present. Handmade gifts are more popular than ever, and for good reason,” says Susan Atchison, manager of trend development for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. “In the current economic climate, people are turning to crafting presents to save money and are discovering that these gifts are so unique that they’re often the gifts that are remembered most.”

Atchison explains that many great gifts can be made for less than $25. She advises aspiring crafters to choose a favorite project and make things in quantities. You’ll save even more money because you buy the supplies and then split the cost. Consider gathering a few friends or family members and creating a gift-making get together! You’ll get crafts done efficiently and spend quality time with the ones you love.

Here are some ideas to inspire you in creating homemade gifts this year:

For the top chef of the family, consider buying a basic apron and decorating it to appeal to their personality. Add that famous family recipe in fabric marker to the front, a clever cooking saying, or even handprints of the grandkids. They are sure to love how unique and useful it is.

* Personalized note cards are fun, festive and useful.
There are always times you need a card to send out to a loved one. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a supply readily at hand? This is a useful gift you can create for anyone from mother to teacher to mail carrier. Buy blank cards and envelopes and decorate with a variety of coordinating papers, ribbons and stamps. You can keep them general or create cards for different occasions such as birthdays and holidays for use throughout the year.

* For the host or hostess who always gives their all.
Traditionally, you might consider sewing a wine bag and bring a bottle of wine to your next holiday gathering. But why not step it up and make a bag for that baguette you’re bringing or a nice container for the appetizer you were assigned for the pot luck?

* Clever pet toys keep furry friends happy.
Creating a gift for the family pet or for your friend who loves animals is the perfect way to show you care. Cat toys can easily be made out of leather and feather pieces. Add a bell and some catnip for some extra pizzazz. Dogs also love homemade toys, just make sure they can stand up to tougher play — rope and thick material work best.

* Deck the halls and deck your friends with stylish clothing and accessories.
Winter-themed clothing is great during the cold months and homemade items are the most cherished. A fleece scarf in a bright color will not only keep the wearer warm, but brighten the wardrobe. Knit hats and mittens are trendy in fashion circles and useful too. Even a hand-sewn fleece poncho can keep your favorite outdoor walker warm during brisk morning jaunts.

* Religious-themed gifts get kids involved.
A homemade gift incorporating the recipient’s religion is something that will definitely stand out. For example, making your own menorah out of fun colored paper and flameless tea lights is an easy and safe gift for a child. When giving, you can explain how the item ties into the time of year and help them to learn about the real reason for the celebration.

* Add a little sparkle to make the season merry and bright.
Nothing brings out the brilliance of the season more than the shimmer of holiday decor. From shiny, handcrafted ornaments and beaded tabletop trees, to sparkling votive holders or a joyful holiday planter, anyone on your list can celebrate in style with these decorations made just for them.

For more ideas and project instructions for homemade gifts, visit your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

For the top chef of the family, consider buying a basic apron and decorating it to appeal to their personality.

*An apron is easy to personalize for the baker, chef or grill master.

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Perfect gifts have seven characteristics in common says gift-giving expert Sherri Athay in her book “Present Perfect: Unforgettable Gifts for Every Occasion.” The perfect gift, Athay advises, is appropriate, perceptive, selfless, generous, indulgent, surprising and evocative.

If one applies those standards to any gift-giving effort, it should be possible to come up with a satisfying gift even for recipients who seem to already possess everything they could need or want.

Here are some ideas for what to give the person who seemingly “has everything.”

Let them Eat Cake . . . or Beef

Food, a wise man once said, is the most personal of gifts. It appears Americans embrace this idea; in the past few years food gifting has risen 56 percent, MarketResearch.com reports. Food falls under three of the most popular and fast-growing gift-giving categories – indulgent gifts, gifts that can be shared and gifts that are sure to please.

Once limited to a box of chocolates or a bottle of nice wine, the specialty food segment has boomed with choices in recent years. It’s now possible to give everything from hand-dipped truffles imported from France to premium dry-aged Angus steaks. And while you may not be sure of a gift recipient’s favorite color, chances are you have an idea of what kind of food he or she enjoys.

Bringing it Home

The real estate downturn has more Americans than ever focusing on improving the homes they already own, rather than trying to move up to a bigger, better one. Any gift that enhances the recipient’s enjoyment of his home – not to mention the home’s value – is sure to please.

At www.muralsyourway.com, you'll find a wealth of options, including the ability to have the company custom make a mural from your photographs.

Home-related gifts can be practical and economical, like a summer’s worth of services from a lawn-care specialist, to the luxurious, such as custom-made drapery. Wall murals, in particular, are proving popular both with homeowners and interior designers. Easy-to-install wallpaper murals offer a wide range of mood-creating scenes, from a Tuscan villa for the kitchen to the view from home plate for a sports fan’s bedroom. At www.muralsyourway.com, you’ll find a wealth of options, including the ability to have the company custom make a mural from your photographs.

Experience the Spirit

It’s been said that while material gifts may end up collecting dust in a closet, one who receives the gift of a special experience will revisit the memories of that experience for years to come. Giving an experience allows the giver to tailor the gift to the interests of the recipient while still staying within the giver’s budget.
You can conceive an experience for virtually any interest. The photo of the 18th green of Pebble Beach in your boss’s office may be a good indication he would appreciate a golf pass. That friend who makes regular trips to the spa might enjoy them even more if you went with her and shared the experience. Your lawn-and-landscaping obsessed spouse might love a gardening class at the local home improvement store or garden center.

With a little creativity and these ideas to work from, you’ll be able to cross “the person who has everything” off your gift-giving list early this year. Now all you have to worry about is what to give your mother-in-law.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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