In my attempt to decrease the overall stress in my life I found I am actually doing something right!  I love making people happy… I suppose that explains my career path.  I found a study that shows when people show an expression of gratitude or make another person happy there is a corresponding 23% decrease in their cortisol levels.  Cortisol, an important hormone in our bodies, is a BIGTIME stress hormone!  So… I now have a legitimate reason to buy gifts and spread good cheer!  It is a surefire way to feel less stressed…

Or is it?   I absolutely love finding the most perfect gift for everyone on my holiday list.  The problem is I always wait until crunch time (a day before said gifts should be given) to make my most lofty gift goals a reality.  While my intentions should result in less stress (i.e.  gratitude = less cortisol = less stress) waiting until the  last minute assures  the whole experience to  become not only exhausting but incredibly stressful!  That is why I have made it my mission to plan and shop early this holiday season!

Admittedly I have sort of given myself a head start this year and thought I should share a few of my secrets!  Start paying attention to things your family and friends mention they like throughout the year.  Then keep a list in your notes on your phone and like magic you have your shopping list!  Sounds so easy…  I am not sure why it has taken me until midlife to figure that one out!  No need to panic if it seems too late to start the list.  Another sneaky way to find one’s gift desires is to check out their Pinterest boards.   What?  No Pinterest?  Make it a plan to introduce this to all family/friends if for no other reason other than to make next year’s gift buying easier!   *A hint for my husband (should he read this)… look under “My Wish List”! 

Of course, I do not always follow my own advice so I have another little tip to share for brainstorming gift ideas.  Make a list of everyday items that are nice to have but not necessarily fun to buy.   Include inexpensive items that would seem indulgent to purchase for yourself.  The key to making these “ho- hum” items become amazing gifts is to go online and search for unique, custom, personalized versions of them!  To help get the brainstorming started I have listed some ideas below:

Nightlights- from rustic to whimsical to elegant the options are endless

Gardening Gloves- might as well be comfortable and look cute while pulling weeds

Personalized items- grilling spatulas, baking dishes, luggage tags, and table linens are all great gifts (just remember to order ahead of time)!

Gourmet- olive oil, herb blends/rubs, salts and peppercorns

“_____ Of the Month Club”- not just for jelly anymore!  Believe it or not there are hundreds of options here.  From Fresh Floral Arrangements to Bacon… it truly is “The Gift That Keeps on Giving”!