In my last post, I went over some of the best tips I’ve found for surviving the holiday season when you have a chronic illness. In this post, I’ve come up with something much more fun – a list of the coolest presents I’ve found this year. I also included what my family has started doing the last few years.
That being said, here they are!
This subscription box is a little different from all the others, in all the best ways. The Self-Care Subscription Box is curated for the chronically ill, by someone who is chronically ill themselves. Every purchase goes towards a small business. You can purchase not only a monthly subscription, but also past boxes for a discount, which I love. I’ve looked through all the boxes online myself – they’re a bargain for what you get. She has great reviews, boxes for all ages, and ships worldwide. This is a really great option if you can’t make it to see your friend, but want to send them something personal and original.
Speaking of a Delivery…
If your loved one is anything like me, sometimes running errands is the last thing that gets done. Between school, work, home, life, and having a chronic illness, all my spoons are accounted for. A gift card for a grocery delivery service could go a long way. The Misfits Market and Hungry Harvest are just two options that deliver imperfect produce right to your door. If nothing like that is available in your area, maybe a Shipt or Doordash gift card is right for their needs.
I have so many plants, it can get a bit crowded in the wintertime. I wouldn’t change it though – they’re provide so many benefits, and make the house so much cozier. If your loved one doesn’t have much of a green thumb but would love some green inside, an air plant can be a wonderful idea. Airplant Hub has so many different collection and specials, it’s easy to find the right gift.
I’ve used CBD oil on and off for a few years now. When I found Lazarus Naturals, I knew I’d stumbled onto something kind of magical. In my opinion, you can’t find a better quality product for the price. They offer different bundles depending on what you need, and a discount for veterans and those on disability. Check their website out for all the details.
If you’re the type that likes to give back with their gift, I’ve got a couple options for you. First of all, I have to recommend any and all of Kevin Byrnes books, which you can buy here. I’ve reviewed them before, too. 100% of the profits from these books are donated to the National MS Society. If you’re buying for an avid reader, then this is a great pick for you.
If you’re more into pampering gifts, consider this lotion from Lush. 100% of the price (minus tax) for The Charity Pot goes to small grassroots organizations. It’s also vegan, and never tested on animals.
I’ve got one more idea in this realm – coffee. And as if great coffee weren’t enough, buying a bag from Grounds and Hounds also means you’re helping animals out with every sip. They’ve got super cute shirts and stickers too – a little something for everyone.
If you’re more of a card kind of person, these ones by Emily McDowell are the place to start. I was introduced when a coworker brought it in to work to show off. As soon as I saw it, I knew Hallmark missed the mark. If you need to say something heartfelt, but funny, these are perfect!
Take Me Away..Not Like Calgon, though.
This one is my personal favorite – obviously, since I do it myself.
If you and your loved one are up for it, some type of adventure can be a great surprise. Notice I said if both of you are up for it – don’t assume they’d enjoy a weekend getaway to go hiking just because you’d love to do that. Take into account fatigue, mobility, and other personal factors before choosing this option.
If it does seem like a good idea, go for it! We like gifting memories or experiences in my family.
You can do something as simple as a drive to see holiday lights or a visit to a museum in your city, or extravagant like a girls spa weekend away. A gift card for a movie date you can enjoy together can be a safe bet, too.
I love planning trips for Christmas and other holidays. For my birthday this year, my husband and I are staying downtown and checking out different holiday festivities around the city. We’re also saving money we’d usually spend on presents for a trip south this spring.
If you’re strapped on cash, but your loved one is crafty, try out some DIY date night ideas for a group experience. A pack of canvas and some paint is relatively cheap – grab some wine or some other indulgence and try out a stay at home paint night.
For the friend that loves to learn, a course on Udemy might be the perfect choice. I was introduced to it when my sister gifted me a cooking class when I was freshly vegetarian. I was able to learn at my own pace, in my pajamas and on my couch. The best part? Being able to try out the tips and recipes in the comfort of my own kitchen. I definitely don’t need the added chaos of being in a kitchen with strangers in a traditional class.
Hopefully some of these gifts hit the mark for you and your loved ones. It’s really the thought that counts, and if you actually put thought into it, I’m sure whomever you’re buying for will love it.
As I mentioned above, I’ll be visiting a bunch of displays and other holiday festivities downtown for my birthday. I plan to do a post on navigating these types of situations later this month! But, check back later this week for an update on my journey with Rebif – it’s been almost 5 months now.
Until then,
