Holiday gift guide for every interest I have

It’s another gift guide for you! Do you need more gift guides? Probably not. But maybe you’ll find something on the list that’s perfect as a treat-yourself present.

While many of the business tools and supplies may be written off as an expense, they could also be considered quality-of-life upgrades and not as prioritized. I have bought, gifted, received, and/or frequently used everything on this list. Most of these are under $100. Amazon referral links are italicized (as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Writing, photography, desk

I work from home and can write several articles on this topic alone. For ergonomics, I’ve used Microsoft’s Sculpt and Surface split keyboards. Split keyboards have helped prevent carpal tunnel; add on a vertical mouse (mine is from Logitech, Amazon) for the ultimate comfort. I use my donut cork boards as inspiration boards. To clean my keyboard and other electronics, the keyboard cleaning gel (Amazon) has been very useful. My boyfriend gifted me the Aran shawl wrap with pockets to keep me warm. 

For photography, I bought my second Peak Design Leash (super easy to use, very adjustable) for my new Fujifilm XT-5, K&F Concept lens cleaning pens (Amazon) (stick one in every bag), and a Behringer X-Touch Mini (Amazon), the MIDI controller I mention in my project notes further down.

Entertainment & cozy things

For the reluctant work-outers: Love Fitness Apparel (on last year’s list, but I also bought more from them this year). Ring Fit for game-ified workouts—I don’t know how to emphasize how much I hate working out. Aura digital photo frame (Amazon) has a very easy gifting approach, does not require a subscription, comes with unlimited photo uploads, and includes an easy app for uploading. If you’re an aspiring but lazy home bartender like me, Yes Cocktail mixers (I liked the lavender honey and sugar plum) are great for both alcoholic and NA cocktails.

Super fun for both kids and adults—Magic Puzzle Company jigsaw puzzle or set of three. I also joined a Facebook group for trading puzzles—swapping is very cost-effective! Cozy Switch games have been very nice in the evenings. This year, I’ve played My Time in Sandrock, Labyrinth City, Caravan SandWitch, A Short Hike, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Penko Park, Wytchwood, and Palia.

Dorfromantik (Amazon) the board game is a campaign-style, tile-placing “board” game (not really a board). Playing solo or with others was really fun, and the campaign feature was easy to understand. 

Personal items

If you’re a carry-on-only traveler like me, but also want an option for checking a bag, get a foldable travel duffel bag. Pack it into your carry-on and use it only if you buy lots of things to take home. Kwohtations sticker sheets are nice for gentle encouragement. If you want cute hair items, check out a Jenny Lemons fruit or veggie hair claw (I gifted this to my best friend). The Anti-Planner for ADHD folks or anyone who needs some help in decision-making. 

Living in California, you learn quickly that air purifiers are a must. I have a Levoit and Coway. And for those of us who are deep mattress or mattress + topper people, these clips have been so useful for keeping the corners down. It’s amazing how the little things make a big difference.

I’m always on the hunt for household concentrates. I’ve been using this hand soap powder concentrate and Blueland’s Oxi Laundry Booster.

Dog

How obsessed are you with your dog (or maybe your dog parent friend is)—get them a custom pet portrait sweatshirt! For peace of mind, grab some QR code ID tags (twists onto a collar, easy-to-update online profile). Zoey has also enjoyed the Ethical Pet Bambone, NaturVet Advanced Probiotics, and Kradle All Day Calming Bone. That last one is not great for super chewers. I found it at a discount grocery store and Zoey was obsessed. It kept her entertained for a long time. Unfortunately, she’s also warped the bone to be unusable, so refills are useless.

Gardening

And finally- plants! Never thought I’d say this, but this magnifying glass has come in useful to inspect bugs. Outdoors, I’ve used the modular/custom trellis and watering can with a detachable head. I can also recommend the beneficial predators from Abrico Organics. 

(I am still in coffee, but I generally don't recommend coffee-related items. There are so many of those gift guides already out there.)

etc.

article links, personal updates, and a plant feature