Looking for the perfect gift for the writer or blogger in your life...or for yourself? Check out these awesome ideas, from lap desks to planners and a few surprises in between!
Not too long ago, I shared a little story about how every time my kids ask me what I want for Christmas...or any occasion, really, I say nothing. They hate that. They want to get me something they know I will like and when I say that I don't want or need anything, that's not very helpful.
Well, this year, my nothing, translated into a whole lot of very good something, especially for the writer in me. Apparently, my family really paid attention to me all year long, because I received some of the best and most thoughtful gifts that this writer could've asked for.
Fabulous.
They were all items I needed and wanted, but probably wouldn't have purchased most of them for myself. Mainly because, to be honest, I didn't even know that some of them existed.
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So the first thing I received is more for them than for me, but it's awesome, so win-win!! I guess they got sick of listening to all of my 70's soft rock music or my blogging podcasts, Facebook lives and webinars. Either way, I don't care, because now I don't have to listen to them telling me over and over to use headphones
Which I never did. I hate those little earbud thingies and if I did manage to get them to stay put in my ears, I was tethered to the computer because of the cord.
Nope. That doesn't work for me. I clean and cook and fold laundry and wash dishes while I listen. I need to move.
Well, present number one solved all those problems. These headphones are super lightweight, fit over my ears and they're wireless!! I can walk (ok...dance) around and listen to my stuff without disturbing anyone else..
Of course, that means I can't really hear them either. Which isn't always a bad thing. Did I just say that out load?
The next gift is probably my favorite.
It looks like an erector set, but it's a flexible laptop stand, so that I can stand up and type!! Yup. Stand! Totally genius, right?? They say that sitting is the new smoking. It's bad for you and you're not supposed to do it. Plus, like I said before, I'm a mover. I eat standing up, I do my paperwork that way, even craft. But how are you supposed to write when you're standing up high and the computer is way down below?
I've made no secret of my plight. I've spent the last four and a half years trying to concoct a way to elevate my laptop without any luck. Well, this baby has changed my writing life. I haven't sat down since I opened it!
It took a while to get the right elevation, because there are so many different possible positions, but once I found one that worked for me, I was set.
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Best of all, it even works on those rare occasions that I do sit at my desk. It keeps me looking up, instead of hunching over the computer, which is bad for my neck and back. This one is a total winner!!
Where's my book? I guess I must've said that sentence enough times over the years for everyone to realize how important my planners are to me. Yes, I have an iPhone, but I'm a paper and pencil kind of gal and old habits die hard.
This year, I received two. A Blue Sky Weekly, Monthly Planner for blogging, to plan out my Exquisitely Unremarkable posts...
...and this one for our personal use. It's my favorite ~ the PlanAhead See It Bigger 2 Year Monthly Planner. It's a simple softcover book with big boxes so there's enough room for me to record the entire family's stuff. Plus, it's a two year book, which is awesome in case I need to refer to the previous year and it saves me dough, since I only need to buy a new book every other year. Thrifty gifty.
The last gift I opened was this soft lap desk. Again, these people were paying attention. At the end of the night, my husband would call me into the family room to watch tv with him. I would always tell him that it was hard for me to work in there. I had to balance my computer on my legs, my phone was floating around somewhere else, then my pen and paper would be tucked under my blanket and then the computer would get hot since there was no ventilation between it and the fabric.
Well, problem solved. This lap desk has a pocket for my phone, a soft bottom with an adjustable bolster, so I can control the pitch if necessary. The top is hard, no overheating Mac, and a strap to tuck paper and pen neatly under. Seriously. How thoughtful is this one? Now I get to watch my old movies on TCM with my guy and work. Dreamy.
I was so overwhelmed with all of my super thoughtful presents, that I was smiling ear to ear when I thanked them.
And those silly kids, they gave me big, big hugs and said, mom, don't worry.
It was nothing.
😉
Ok, so while I've been showing you all the "nothing" I received I had to show you a silly gift that brought someone else a huge smile. Years ago, my daughter asked Santa for a Hello Kitty Two Slice Toaster. It started out as kind of a joke, but as the season went on, she talked about it more and more. Well, we had a toaster, a really nice Kitchenaid one (in red, of course) and in this cottage, one of anything is more than enough. So Santa did not bring the toaster and my daughter was not phased in the least. I figured we were done.
However, the next year, it appeared on her list. Again, it was partially a joke, but since her nickname is Kitty and she is a Hello Kitty lover, I figured if was partially not. Alas, neither our toaster nor our housing situation had changed from the prior year, so it was not under the tree.
Well, this year, when it showed up on the list yet again, I couldn't resist. I knew that it was joke, 100%, but I figured it'd be even funnier if she really got it. So I went to Amazon. I found out that it had over 200 reviews and a four star rating and it wasn't going to break the bank ~ so I bought it.
I have to tell you, I haven't seen that kid smile like that on Christmas morning since the milk and cookies days. Totally worth it. And let me tell you, it makes really good toast, too.
For more of my favorites you can check out my Amazon shop.
What'd you get from Santa?
So enjoyed reading this. What great gifts and thoughtful family. My husband's been laid up since October 10 with foot surgery, so I bought myself all my gifts. At least I don't have to return anything, but the thoughtfulness of your family was amazing...More than the gifts, the time and thought that went into them says it all....Tracy S
ReplyDeleteThanks Tracy!! I have bought myself a gift or two over the years (my husband doesn't mind, but my kids hate when I do that!), but no returns is right! I hope your husband is literally on his feet again soon! Happy Holidays my friend!
DeleteReally cool gifts . . .
ReplyDeleteLike that “erector set look” lap top stand.
Now there is a good ‘dea!
And how could anyone not like a kitty toaster and the best smiles ever!
Great listening was going on for sure!
The standing desk is my favorite, Lynne. I am not a sitter and it's been driving me crazy for years! My husband had fun with it, too. It's kind of a puzzle at first, but overall, works great! And yes...super listening!
DeleteLove the Hello Kitty toaster! My oldest daughter, now 43, used to love Hello Kitty products. Isn't it great when gift givers are really listening? I don't exchange presents with anyone anymore. I have way too much stuff anyway!
ReplyDeleteBrenda
It’s so funny, Brenda, I used to love Hello Kitty when I was little, too. She was thrilled and I loved making her smile…and the face on the toast is ridiculous!
DeleteI love all your nothings!
ReplyDeleteOur best gift this year was my husband's. The kids found a Walker shortbread cookie tin filled with cookies in the shape of the British flag. The tin is a British flag as well. His reaction was so priceless. :) He loves anything British & we always buy him Walker shortbread cookies (last year he got a whole case of them).
And to show you just how much he loves anything British....a few years ago we bought new sofas. He spotted a set of British flag pillows in the showroom that went with another sofa. He went back three times trying to get them to sell him the pillows & they wouldn't separate them from the sofa. I searched everywhere for them online & never could find them....maybe someday.
We gave our son a North Face packback, something he's wanted for a long time but never asked for because they are pretty expensive. It was pretty fun, he was totally surprised & thrilled to have one.
So glad your family had such a fun Christmas together.
Thanks Jenny! It was a fun day...a fun season! Sounds like your family did a lot of good listening, too! And I bet you could find pillows like that on Etsy? Or at least find someone who would make them for you! I wish you a wonderful 2018, my friend. ♡
DeleteTurns out your family knew exactly what you wanted, even though you didn't realize you needed it! Very thoughtful gifts. Shows they pay attention. And I can just picture the look on your daughter's face after opening the toaster. Too cute!!
ReplyDeleteOh the toaster was a huge hit, Kathy and her face was priceless. Sometimes I think I should've gotten it for her years ago, but I don't think it would've been as big a hit as it was this year. Happy New Year!
DeleteKim, wow you really got some great and useful nothings! What a cute story about the toaster and it is a really cute one. I got some nice and useful "nothings" too and one that was special was a bag of loose tea and the little tea-pot to steep it in from Jake and Jacenda all the way from Ireland. The most perfect gift for a grandma!..It was a great Christmas and sounds like your's was too. Here's to a Happy and Healthy New Year for all..xxoJudy
ReplyDeleteI know, Judy! A lot of very sweet "nothings"!! Your teapot and tea sounds lovely and all the way from Ireland? You can't get a more thoughtful gift than that! I wish you a wonderful New Year, my friend. Have a fabulous weekend! ❤️
DeleteWow - awesome gifts, my friend, your family sure was listening to you, no doubt!! They did GOOD!! Santa is always good to me, I'm spoiled for sure - spa gift certificates, chocolates, clothes, kitchen goodies....the list goes on and on! It was a wonderful Christmas and everyone was happy with their goodies, no doubt!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you get great stuff all the time! Lucky lady! Happy New Year!
DeleteI never know what to ask for either! This year my hubs got me an iPad! I need it for the work I do in our business and I can use it for my own use as well! I like your headphones and that computer stand!
ReplyDeleteAnd iPad!! That’s awesome. I was always a pc/ android girl and I made the Mac/ iPhone switch and I love them. Enjoy!!
DeleteThese are great gifts! I'd be interested in a few for myself! I just love the Hello Kitty toaster....who knew? I love giving fun things like that. I have been giving my oldest granddaughter one of those annoying musical Christmas stuffed animals every year for at least 10 years now. She lights up every time she opens one.
ReplyDeleteGiving to the kids is the best, isn't it? Sometimes it's those crazy, silly items that make the biggest impact. Like you said, who knew? Happy New Year!!
DeleteGreat gifts! I now have a laptop with a Solid State Drive which means no moving parts and no fan - so there's no hot bottom or overheating. I can use it on my lap with no problem. It's also smaller than your average laptop so weighs under 2 lbs. I love it - so portable! Hubby gifted me with a gorgeous pair of earrings from Sundance and a stack of printed quotes enclosed in a brass "ring", also from Sundance. My son gave me kitty socks and some other cat-themed things. ;-)
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a very cool computer, Melanie. I have to say that I love my Mac, I converted a few years ago after being a PC FOREVER kind of gal and I haven’t looked back…but the hot thing is a pain. I love your gifts, especially your kitty themed ones. Sounds like all you’re missing is that Hello Kitty Toaster. Ha!! 😉
DeleteGreat ideas and really like the flexible stand that allows me to stand. I like this idea since I'd rather stand then sit.
ReplyDeleteI love the stand, Cathy! That's been a game changer...
DeleteI love your office space and those planners are perfect. Now that toaster is a hoot. My girl would love that. I might pick one up next year. LOL, Happy New Year's.
ReplyDeleteIt's totally worth it, Vanessa! I fought the urge for three years and they love it! Happy New Year!!
DeleteI like what you got! Doesn't every girl love a clean, pretty, blank planner? I know I do! The Hello Kitty toaster is a hoot! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat did I get? Perfume which is something I won't buy myself. Candles and cup towels which I love! Oh I got two of those fake candles that look totally real! I asked for those. :)
Happy New Year, Kim.
It sounds like you got a bunch of sweet “nothings” as well. Aren’t they the best?? Happy New Year, Stacey!
Deleteoh that toaster just cracked me up!!!
ReplyDeleteThey really were paying attention ....Santa-Family was very thoughtful this year! :)
Isn't the toaster ridiculous, Deb? Haha!!
DeletePersonal and perfect for your writing needs, Kim! I especially like the soft lap desk, with all its features, very well designed and ergonomically efficient!
ReplyDeleteThe toaster is TOO cute and the fact that it makes great toast is a tasty bonus!
Happy New Year to you and your lovely family! All the very best in health and happiness!
xoxo
Poppy
I am using the lap desk right now, Poppy, typing in front of the fire, and you're right, it's soft and cozy! Health, happiness and Happy New Year to you as well, my friend. xxoo
DeleteI love the toaster, Kim! And I'm not a cat lover. I put my laptop on my kitchen counter sometimes to stand and use so I can see the value in your new gift. All of your gifts sound like thoughtful ones. I use a lap desk myself.
ReplyDeleteI fought the urge to buy that silly cat toaster for three years, Dewena, but it’s been so worth it, if only for the laughs! Enjoy your pups! I bet you can’t wait until they come home!! Happy New Year!
DeleteI love the humor in gifting a Hello Kitty toaster! The fun memories that will bring down the road. :)
ReplyDeleteQuick question, do you have the removable mouse pad on your Flex Laptop Desk? My husband could benefit from this, he's always hunched over the computer and complains of neck pain constantly. There is quite the height difference between us and unfortunately for him the computer station is sized for me and the kids. Even if he never uses it to stand at least he could raise the screen to eye height. I looked it up on Amazon found your version and a version with a mouse pad. Is it necessary? Do you have any problems with the wifi mouse connecting to the laptop when in stand-up height? Just curious. Thanks for you input!
Hey Audra! Don't you love that toaster? Haha!
DeleteI have to say, I love the Flex Desk. I hunch over the computer even when sitting and this has changed all of that. Sitting or standing I am looking straight ahead now. Much better. Unfortunately, I don't think I'm going to be a big help with the mouse pad question though. As you said, I do not have the removable mouse pad on my version. I just use the touch pad without a mouse. I have no problems with wifi connectivity in general when using the desk, but I couldn't speak to the wifi mouse issue because I don't have one. Did you check the Amazon reviews? I always find a lot of great information there. People seem to have the same questions as me! Keep me posted, I'm curious too! Sorry I'm not more help!
Loved reading your post. It's lovely to receive gifts that you want but wouldn't buy for yourself. This year I wrote a 'Mum's Xmas gift wish list'. I didn't want my husband to go out and buy gifts for me from him and my son, which I'd like but didn't need so I put practical suggestions to give them a helping hand. Items on the list included new pj's (I badly needed some), scented candles, chocolates, slippers etc.
ReplyDeleteOn Christmas morning it was lovely to receive gorgeous pjs, which my son had chosen for me as they had small hears on them along with black Scottie dogs. Two things I love. He'd also helped his daddy chose me candles in pretty glass jars and cosy slipper socks. I am over the moon with my gifts and think I'll do a wish list for Mother's Day and my birthday too ��
A little direction is a great thing Karen! You received practical (and pretty) items you needed and they were able to give you something you love! That's how I felt about my presents this year. Enjoy those pajamas and all of your treats during the rest of the holiday season! Thanks so much for leaving a comment today and I wish you a fabulous New Year!!
DeleteWow, Kim, that's awesome your family was listening and you got what you didn't know you wanted! I like the idea of the laptop stand too. My doc has already told me I sit too much, so this would be great for me too, plus love those headphones! I could listen to the Beatles and not have the hubby roll his eyes. Great gifts! Love that toaster too! One of these days, that will probably be worth some money...LOL. It's cute as can be!
ReplyDeleteHa! Thanks for the tip, Florence. We'll hold on to the toaster! So funny. And yes, the sitting thing was killing my neck and back and I felt stiffer in general by the end of the day. It's working out great so far. Good gift!
DeleteI love the Hello Kitty toaster! Totally something I would have asked for too. :) I'm glad you got it for your "Kitty." Your people really took good care of you in the present category! So many thoughtful gifts. And I'm totally a paper and pencil kind of girl too. I finally started using the calendar on my iPhone, but you better believe I still use my paper wall calendar in the kitchen. ;)
ReplyDeleteWe all love the toaster, Lisa! It’s a must for kitty lovers. Of course, it doesn’t match my decor in the least, but that’s ok, we keep her tucked away with the other toaster….although she’s quite the conversation piece when she’s left out!! ;) Happy New Year!
DeleteFantastic gifts, Kim. How nice when your family really 'gets' you. But I have to say - that toaster! Wow! I want one too.
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
Thanks Amalia! I am a lucky lady...and that toaster! I know! Too cute. xo
DeleteWow!
ReplyDeleteThat toaster!
Brilliant!
My good wishes for a Happy 2018.
All the best Jan
Thanks Jan! I can only imagine what you could whip up in your kitchen with it! Fun!
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