2020 Holiday Gift Guide.

Holiday

GIFT GUIDE

SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS | GIFT IDEAS

Support Artisans and Eateries

Small businesses across America have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As shopping restrictions have been put in place across the country, local businesses have found themselves getting creative in selling their goods.

One of the best ways you can support your local business community is by purchasing items from local artisans and restaurants.

Support Local Artisans

Some of the most talented people in your community are artisans creating handmade — or even customized — gifts for people on your shopping list.

You may find artisans partnering with local businesses to sell their products at a storefront versus opening up their own display space. When you shop locally, you give these artisans the exposure and financial support they need to grow their business.

Support Local Restaurants and Food Trucks

Can’t decide what to eat this weekend? Search your local newspaper or Facebook restaurant groups to find great local options versus settling for chain establishments.

Local food trucks are also an option for enjoying unique cuisine while also supporting small business owners in your community.

These businesses have seen an uptick in business due to their flexibility in being able to set up at various sites.

Keep your eye out on social media for where food trucks are setting up

during the holiday shopping season, and show your support by buying your meals locally.

Customer Service

What can you expect when you shop with local artisans and restaurants?

Great customer service, for one. Many shoppers complain about customer service at the big chain stores during the holidays due to retail employees often being stretched too thin in their work schedules.

With local businesses, you can expect personalized customer service along with the unique food or items you’ll find. That’s because great customer service is the lifeblood of a small business owner.

They are depending on referral business from you and your community members. Many times, small business owners are able to craft and personalize products for their customers. This level of customization is another aspect of great customer service that is so critical for small businesses to deliver.

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also help

The holiday season is among the busiest for your local small businesses. One of the most helpful things you can offer to make sure they have a successful end-of-year is you.

Consider volunteering with your local small business or nonprofit offering your expertise to help them grow or serve the community. Depending on what kind of company they run, your local small business owner can always use some type of free help.

Whether it’s helping out in the store or offering to make deliveries, there are many ways you can help your small business or nonprofit have a great holiday shopping season.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Here are some questions to consider before offering your services to a

Volunteer L ocally

small local business or nonprofit organization:

• Do you want to work alongside people or be more of an individual contributor?

• Do you prefer a virtual engagement or something more in the field?

• What specific skills or experience can you bring to the table?

• What type of business or nonprofit would you like to support?

• Do you know anyone who may be able to give you an opportunity in a business or nonprofit?

Get Some Experience

Are you in college looking for some wintertime work? Approach your

local small business or nonprofit about possible internship or volunteer roles. You may be able to find some valuable experience while also making a difference in your community.

Nonprofits and other organizations are often seeking people who can help them in specific areas like fundraising, marketing or finances. If you have some of these skill sets — as well as the time to build up your resume — consider pitching your services today.

Be Realistic

Before committing to volunteering within your community, make sure

you have the time available to fulfill your responsibilities. Understand what is expected of you and if there will be a specific schedule outlined for your assistance.

Especially during the holiday season, you may find yourself too busy to devote too much time to a steady commitment. Be transparent about what you can offer and keep an open line of communications going with your local business or nonprofit.

6035 Thrifty Queen

LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS | DO YOUR PART

Join the Movement

Shopping locally during the holiday season is a win-win for both consumers and businesses. When you shop at your local establishment, you’re actually helping more than the owners. You’re also funding community projects and helping keep your region clean and attractive.

This can be critically important during the holiday season, when many charities are in need of funding and volunteers.

That’s because larger portions of money spent with local businesses stay in the area compared to when you shop with a large retailer or online. So do your part this holiday season by supporting those who keep our communities going. Shop local and watch your money have a big impact on your area.

Support With Your Dollar

If you’re looking to make a difference this holiday season, consider devoting a specific portion of your shopping budget to small businesses.

While there’s no arguing that online shopping can be convenient, spending all of your budget online can cripple your local economy. If you just can’t live without the online shopping experience, check to see what kinds of online product offerings your local businesses offer. You can even shop locally online, as local restaurants, artisan shops and businesses have shifted their models during COVID-19 to being able to handle more online orders.

Support Your Neighbors

According to a study by Michigan State University, small local businesses are the largest employers nationally, creating two out of every three new jobs, and employ 52% of the nation’s employees.

Since 2003, small businesses have added 5.1 million new jobs to the economy. By shopping locally, you can help your business community expand into hiring more employees. Your dollars can help more people find jobs around your area, which will help your local economy grow stronger and stronger.

Support Giving

A 2019 U.S. Small Business Administration survey found that 75% of small business owners donate some portion of their profits — about 6%on average — to charitable organizations each year.

Most times, those charities are headquartered in your community. Every time you shop local, a portion of your dollars may also be donated to a local charity.

Shop L ocal For Holiday Meals

How do you envision your big family Christmas meal this holiday season? Does it involve a piping hot turkey surrounded by fresh cranberry sauce, carrots and salad?

For dessert, are you seeing delectable pies featuring delicious local ingredients and toppings?

Ifso, then your best bet is to shop local farmer’s markets and grocers to give your guests the experience — and the meal — that they deserve. Owners of these establishments depend on local farmers for their produce and meats, ensuring that shoppers can find the freshest, most organically produced ingredients for their special meals.

When you shop locally for your food this holiday season, you’re supporting small business owners and farmers in driving access to healthy, fresh items for your community.

Think Fresh

We all know that fruits and vegetables contain the most nutrition when they are fresh and ripe. So, when you’re out shopping for your big Christmas meal, why not shop locally at your farmer’s market or organic food market for the perfect ingredients?

Delight your guests with fresh, roasted vegetables or organically raised beef this holiday season. You can even find flowers and artistic table-toppers from local flower shops or artisans to help brighten up your dining room table for your meal.

Fresh is always better, and your local businesses are able to deliver some of the best food and decorations for your holiday festivities.

Local Farmer’s Markets

One of the best places to find fresh local food is your local farmer’s market, which are found to have a positive effect on total agricultural sales across the country, according to EcoWatch, an environmental news outlet.

The Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture

advises that because food in the U.S. travels an average of 1,500 miles to get to your plate, it’s actually more environmentally friendly to shop for your food locally. That’s because food transportation requires the use of large amounts of fossil fuels which causes air pollution and trash buildup from extra packaging.

Keep this in mind when you’re considering shopping locally or at a chain. Every time you support your local market or grocer, the farmers and business owners in your area will benefit.

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Pet owners across the world are sure to purchase gifts for their favorite furry friends this holiday season. Pets, after all, offer us companionship and humor throughout our lives. So, why wouldn’t they make your holiday shopping list?

Odds

are, you’ve got a great local business in your community that is ready to spoil your cat or dog this holiday season. Hunting down gifts for your dog or cat can be as simple as dropping into a local pet shop or finding out what they have online.

Pets Are Part of the Family

A recent survey by Rover, an online pet store, surveyed 2,000 dog and cat owners in the U.S. and came away with these results:

• 80% of pet owners plan to purchase a gift for their pets this season.

• 68% of owners plan to buy multiple gifts for their pets.

• 55% of owners plan to spend at least $25 on their pet for holiday gifts.

• 20% of pets will receive more gifts than human members of the family.

• 77% of owners said they will include their pets on holiday family traditions.

Given these numbers, there’s no doubt pets will be spoiled by their owners this year. If you fall into this category, remember that shopping at your local pet shop can actually keep money in your community and pay for

things like dog parks and other infrastructure needed by the pet owner community.

Local businesses in this space are depending on customers like you to keep their businesses thriving for years to come.

Give the Gift of Grooming

If you have a special pet in your life, maybe a custom grooming is the best gift you can give. Check in with your local pet grooming shop to see what kinds of services they offer. There may be opportunities to pamper your pet with a wash

and conditioning, as well as a nail trimming or haircut.

You may also be able to purchase special shampoos and conditioners that allow you to do your grooming from home. Check online to see what your local pet groomers offer to make your shopping experience convenient, while also supporting your local small business community.

For the Traveler

Do you know a loved one who is always on the go? Whether they travel for business or pleasure, they will appreciate a gift that they can bring along to enhance their comfort or provide convenience.

Alife

spent on the road or air can be extremely exhausting and cause a feeling of homesickness. Help the traveler find peace while on the move, with a present they will appreciate.

Digital Translator

Finding yourself in a foreign location where the native tongue isn’t your first language can be intimidating. Fortunately, developers have created accurate translation devices that can increase someone’s comfortability when navigating an unfamiliar situation.

There are a few different types of gadgets on the market for you to consider.

•Non-talking: The device requires a user to type a word from their language before receiving the translation in a digital format.

• Text-to-speech: Travelers can enter a familiar term and are delivered an audible translation. This handy feature provides the exact pronunciation, making communication more accessible.

• Speech-to-speech: The most convenient type of translator offers software that listens to a term and provides an audible rendering in a chosen language.

While a translator may not be the best option for someone aiming to become fluent in a new dialect, they are incredibly convenient for those

who are passing through. However, don’t be surprised if they pick up on a few common phrases.

Flight Comfort

Those who consistently find themselves in the air or waiting for a layover in various airports know the importance of staying comfortable. Look for a memory foam neck supports or a flexible pillow that allows numerous positions for ultimate comfort.

Help the traveler catch up on rest while onboard by investing in noise-canceling headphones or an innovative sleep mask designed to avoid applying pressure to one’s face.

Thoughts from Home

It’s common for travelers to miss their loved ones and the life they know back home. Consider loading a digital picture frame with their favorite memories of their friends and family. The lightweight device can go everywhere with them to be displayed on a hotel nightstand.

Another generous way to remind them of their home is to fill a care package with their favorite snacks or beverages that are available locally.

Try to find goods that are nonperishable so they can bring them along during their adventures.

For the Health-Conscious

Reward the health-conscious family member or loved one for taking care of themselves with a gift that enhances their healthy

lifestyle. If they already seem to have everything needed for a beneficial routine, finding the right item may seem daunting.

Whether your recipient is already living with wellness in mind or is committed to begin a journey into better fitness, these holiday gift ideas are sure to serve as exceptional motivation.

Workout Clothes

An aspect of performing physical exercise is to be comfortable during the process. While people may have different preferences regarding what they wear during their workouts, look for clothes that offer breathability, lightweight

fabric and safety features like reflective patches.

If your loved one is the type who prefers to try their outfits before making a purchase, you can always buy them a gift card for their local sport’s attire store. This is often the best option if you are unsure of their size or are picky about clothing.

Mobile Equipment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four Americans sits for more than eight hours per day. If their work

allows, consider buying them an exercise bike that fits inconspicuously underneath a desk. Find an option that allows for varying resistance settings so they can customize the workout.

Another easy-to-pack idea is a mobile yoga mat. For those constantly on the move, it’s an efficient tool to inspire a workout that motivates breathing exercises and meditation while they are away from their familiar surroundings.  Gym Membership

Someone who frequents their local

gym will always appreciate a break from their regular membership fees. Find out where your health-conscious recipient works out and meet with an employee to take care of their monthly or annual expenses.

You may be eligible for discounts if you cover the costs for multiple people or sign-up yourself. One of the best gifts for a recipient who is just starting their life to better health is having a workout buddy to accompany them.

For the Craft Beer Lover

Craft beer has found a unique niche in the American alcohol industry.

According to the Brewers Association, overall U.S. beer volume sales were down two percent in 2019. However, craft brewer sales obtained a 4% growth, accounting for 13.6% of the entire market. The smaller operations now represent over 25% of the $116 billion American beer industry.

If you know an enthusiast who appreciates discovering a new favorite IPA or ale, the holidays are the perfect time to quench their thirst. Check out some excellent ways to drive the craft brew lover further into their passion.

DIY Kit

There is no better way to gain an understanding of the hard work performed by brewers than doing it yourself. An excellent way to become familiar with the process is to share a DIY kit that includes ingredients to make someone’s favorite type of brew. Make sure the gift offers thorough instructions so your recipient can gain a stronghold on the task.

As your recipient gets better at developing their own drinks, they can choose to experiment with various types of recipes to craft different beers. With time and practice, your

gift could lead an enthusiast’s athome ventures into a full-time career.

Subscription Box

Sign someone up for a beer-of-themonth subscription box to invite a variety of craft beer right to their doorstep. It’s a gift they will look forward to throughout the year as samples from different brewers arrive for their tasting pleasure.

Before investing in a subscription, do your research to find reviews from actual customers. Look for the positive feedback regarding

the satisfaction with the provided products and timeliness of delivery.

Merchandise

Most craft beer makers sell merchandise within the walls of their breweries. However, if your loved one’s favorite brewer is out of town, you should find out if they offer goods online. Discover a creative gift in their shops like custom glasses, bottle openers or attire.

Help your enthusiast represent their favorite brand by picking up a few gifts that support a preferred brand.

© ADOBE STOCK

For the Farmer

The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that there are about 2 million farms currently in operation. Farmers of both large and small outfits will appreciate a gift that helps them conduct business more efficiently.

When searching for the perfect token of gratitude, look for items that provide knowledge, save money or help them enjoy free time.

Farming Attire Weather conditions are not always favorable for farmers as they tend to their duties outdoors. Whether the brunt of their operation is conducted during warm weather or brutal cold conditions, the right attire can significantly impact their performance.

• Heavy-duty coat: Help your farmer stay warm by gifting them with a durable chore coat. Find a stiff canvas material that provides warmth while offering flexibility.

• Mud boots: Working in the rain is a common occurrence on the farm. Invest in a heavy-duty pair of rubber boots to help keep your farmer’s feet dry. Don’t forget to include insulated socks to go along.

• Rough-service gloves: Impactresistant gloves are an efficient tool to protect hands from becoming smashed or injured during farm work.

Weather Radio

When out in the field, farmers can rely on a weather radio to find out about pop-up storms that are in the area. With enough warning, they may retreat to safety or plan

for more significant events by bringing their valuable livestock to safety.

An official National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio will also provide helpful information regarding disasters like earthquakes, AMBER alerts and chemical spills in the area.

Portable Equipment

An emergency around the farm can likely halt the operation without proper equipment. Factors like a flat tire or malfunctioning machinery can happen due to numerous reasons while farming. Ensure your

farmer is prepared to tend to these instances with a portable air compressor.

The tool doesn’t just assist with inflating tires. It can also power air tools to help with maintenance or repairs in the field.

Another useful piece of machinery to have on hand is a mobile generator. If a power outage occurs, a farmer can connect their crucial equipment to electricity until the utility is restored. These units typically operate on either gasoline or diesel, ask your loved one which type of fuel that their machinery uses as they will likely have a surplus on-site.

For the Host or Hostess

For many, planning a party is more fun than the actual event. If you know someone who finds every excuse to hold a get together, consider finding a gift that will take the next party to the next level.

Whileit’s typical that they already own the basic items that are efficient in entertaining, here are some ideas that may enhance their gatherings or make planning easier.

Serving Dishes

Is the person on your list a snackfood aficionado? If so, they will likely benefit from new serving platters. Look for plates that have several sections to separate the variety of offerings. Try to imagine their home’s decor and find a style that blends well with the current scheme.

Of course, you should choose items that are dishwasher safe to make cleanup easier for the host or hostess.

A full set featuring plates, bowls and glasses can also be a welcome present this holiday. The upgrade in dishware will provide a reminder of your wholesome idea for both get-togethers and their family meals throughout the year.

Sound Systems

Music is a common staple at nearly every party. Allow the host or hostess to express themselves with a wireless

sound system that can be spread throughout the home. Many units have the frequency to distribute music to speakers arranged in different rooms.

When an entire sound system isn’t in your budget, a quality Bluetooth speaker can suffice. Check ratings for a model that connects different smart devices easily, so guests can quickly sync up and play their favorite tunes.

Another specification to consider is buying a waterproof unit, especially if the parties feature a swimming pool.

Livestream Camera

Give your party planner a livestream camera to document epic events and capture memories with their closest friends. These unique gadgets are efficient in obtaining footage and sounds and portraying them to a live audience or recording the party for later viewing.

Look for a quality model that boasts a high-definition view and records crystal-clear sound.

America’s history is packed with trials, tribulations and success stories that citizens persevered through to make the country what it is today. Fortunately, through first- and second-hand accounts, the journey is well documented.

Whilebooks are always a fantastic gift to give a history buff, it’s likely that they are already familiar with the subject or already own the literature. This holiday season find a unique gift that is sure to bring out their passion for absorbing more information.

Maps from the Past

Numerous companies offer highquality prints of world maps from medieval to more recent eras. Once you find a vendor, choose the perfect size and image to give the history buff. Try to plan the purchase in

For the History Buff

case the printer needs extra time to customize the gift. You can usually find maps specific to their state or county for an extra flair of personalization.

Once you have an idea regarding the size of the finished product, consider investing in a durable frame so the imagery can be displayed without damage for many years.

Trivia Games

Test your recipient’s history knowledge or encourage them to learn new things with a trivia game.

Different versions ask players to answer little-known questions or arrange events in chronological order. Most feature a level of gameplay that makes the objective competitive for multiple players. Enjoying the game together with their younger family members may inspire their curiosity for history and form a long-lasting bond focused on learning.

Memorabilia

You can find interesting relics from the past by visiting local antique shops, flea markets and even yard sales. Ask the owner of the

memorabilia if they are familiar with its history or take a chance by purchasing an item and doing research later. If possible, try to find goods that are thought to be from your recipient’s favorite time and share its story once the gift is given.

If you wish to discover the relic’s actual value, Consumer Reports recommends finding a certified appraiser’s valuation. An expert can identify the exact age of an antique and determine what it is worth based on its rarity and condition.

For the Long-Distance Relationship

Whether your significant other, friend or family member lives in another location, spending the holidays without them can be challenging.

Fortunately, cutting-edge technology makes living apart more manageable because of software like video calls or texting apps. However, there are numerous gifts available to help your longdistance companion think of you when you’re unable to communicate.

Touch Reminders

If your friend or loved one lives in a different time zone, staying in contact is sometimes impossible. Rather than compromising your sleep schedule for a late-night phone call or video chat, consider sending them a loving reminder through touch technology. Developers have created items like lamps and watches that connect

each other to glow with an attractive hue upon touch. Once you activate your model, its in-sync counterpart will light up at its location. Before purchasing this wholesome gift, ensure the recipient has reliable WiFi capabilities as it is critical to the operation.

Book Subscription Box

When a couple shares a passion of reading, consider signing each other up for a monthly book subscription. Each month, you will both be presented with a new story based on your preferences.

When you’re in a long-distance relationship, consider participating

in remote discussions regarding your feelings of the content.

Try to keep the same pace with your reading companion, so the conversation is fresh and relevant.

Personalized Scrapbook

The perfect gift for someone far away doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Invest in a high-quality picture album and load it with your favorite photographs and images of activities you both are fond of.

Consider including newspaper headlines from important dates in your relationship. For instance, add positive clippings from days like

birthdays, anniversaries and other significant events. The beautiful book can serve as a reminder about the strength of your relationship.

New Luggage Set

If your companion frequently travels for regular visits, find a practical luggage set that makes packing and carrying more comfortable.

Look for a suitcase that provides plenty of space for multiple outfits so they can dress for any occasion. Storage on wheels can also offer immense convenience for those who use the airport for means of transportation.

FOR THE HOLIDAYS, GIVE THE GIFT OF CARING

How to Select Safe Toys for Kids

Children look forward to opening their holiday presents all year. However, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure gifts are safe and appropriate

To help you make savvy selections, PlaySafe.org from The Toy Association, the premier site for toy safety information, is offering the following guidance:

Avoid Shady Sellers

This time of year can be especially costly, making it tempting to shop around. However, that low priced toy may not actually be “a good deal.”

“U.S. toy safety laws are considered the gold standard. Before reaching your home, a toy is subjected to over 100 different safety standards and tests and must be certified compliant by an independent testing laboratory,” says Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s “Toy Safety Mom” and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs. “The cheap imitations and counterfeits available online from illicit sellers haven’t met these same safety standards.”

A recent survey commissioned by The Toy Association of U.S. parents who are their household’s primary toy purchaser revealed that 71 percent of parents whose kids get holiday gifts from grandparents who shop online aren’t completely confident that their elders know how to ensure that toys are from verified sellers. In the same survey, 19 percent of parents report that their child has received a knockoff toy that was bought online.

Parents should talk to gift purchasers about sticking with verified sellers. This includes buying directly from brand websites or by following provided links to official retailers selling a brand’s products. For those who do choose to shop through lesser-known online sellers, checking out reviews and a product’s legitimacy before making a purchase is essential.

Follow Age Recommendations

Playing with toys above a child’s age

grade can lead to misuse and possible injury. However, 26 percent of parents in The Toy Association survey report that their kid has received a toy which was meant for kids who were older. Pay special attention to age grading on product labels and encourage family members who are also toy shopping to do the same. These are not merely suggestions, they’re firm recommendations made by safety experts based on childhood developmental stages. Find this information on labels and in product descriptions. If it’s not available, that’s a red flag and could mean the toy is illicit.

Pay Attention

To Toys Labeled 3+ Toys labeled 3+ may contain small parts that can be a choking hazard for children under 3 or kids who still mouth toys. While these items often make great gifts for older kids, they should be stowed away after playtime to keep younger siblings safe. Not

sure if a toy is small enough to be hazardous? Consider getting a Small Parts Tester to test toys and other small household objects.

Monitor Playtime

Kids find ways to play with things that are not toys, including objects that can be very dangerous if accidentally swallowed. The holiday season may introduce new curiosities to the house (e.g. batteries, high-powered magnets, decorations, medications from visiting family members). Keep dangerous, non-toy items out-ofreach and monitor children during playtime.

For additional toy safety information, tips and resources, visit PlaySafe.org.

“Don’t let your child unwrap a potential safety hazard this holiday season,” says Lawrence. “By shopping smart you can ensure safe play.” (StatePoint)

Home Lighting to Add to Your Holiday Wish List

more time at home working, learning and simply living? The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to gift your household with lighting that enhances the feel and function of your spaces.

Spending

To take advantage of the best deals of the season, create your “lighting wish-list”. Manufacturers such as Progress Lighting are making it easy to plan ahead . As you seek inspiration, consider these designs, which align with the latest home decor trends:

Bath & Vanity

Create a serene bathroom oasis capturing the old and the new. Featuring a clean, precise design, the Hansford Collection’s four-light bath and vanity bracket with an Antique Bronze finish lends itself to farmhouse, coastal or industrial interiors. For a modern, yet timeless look, consider the Carisa Collection’s three-light Vintage Gold Bath light. Its metallic finish supports glossy white glass globes.

Ceiling Fans

Add expansive design to great rooms, living rooms and bedrooms with statement-making ceiling fans. The Springer Collection 60-inch 12-Blade Distressed Walnut Coastal

Windmill fan, inspired by the form and function of a windmill, has an architectural bronze finish ideal for farmhouse, industrial and transitional interior settings. For sophisticated, modern design, consider the Glandon Collection 60-inch fan, which has full-range dimming and reversible blades in driftwood and walnut.

Chandeliers

Complement rustic and modern farmhouse home décor in hallways, foyers and great rooms, as well as urban industrial and coastal interior settings, with the four-light linear chandelier of the Gulliver Collection. Its three circular bands wrap together for an open design. Dual-toned frame color combinations of graphite feature weathered gray accents. Or, create a soft, muted glow with the four-light black chandelier in the Durrell Collection. Inside the sailcloth linen shade nestle light bases on gently curved arms coated in a beautiful finish.

to the ceiling or chain-hung -- for a fitting stage to feature nostalgic, vintage lamps. For rustic flair, consider a close-to-ceiling fixture in the Durrell Collection featuring a round open-cage frame coated in a farmhouse-style matte black finish.

Outdoor

feel inspired by astronomy, whereas Penn, a one-light large pendant with a clear glass sphere in a natural brass finish, embraces a modern take on vintage electric design.

Controls

Close-to-Ceiling

A new category of vintage modern fixtures takes center stage with this convertible fixture in the Debut Collection. Delicate details in a graphite finish create a statementmaking focal piece for a variety of interiors -- whether mounted flush

Enhance modern and transitional style settings outdoors with the minimalist, yet exciting design of the Square Wall Lantern. The crisscross design of the Hollingsworth Collection Wall Lantern surrounds clear seeded glass, emulating popular farmhouse décor and when paired with vintage or traditional bulbs, enhances a variety of transitional exteriors.

Pendants

The concentric rings of Equinox pendants pivot for an otherworldly

Experience the convenience of touchless lighting with voice control through Siri, Amazon Alexa, or the Google Assistant using the iDevices Smart Lighting Controls. Manage home lighting from anywhere and set dynamic scenes via the connected app.

By upgrading home lighting during the holidays, you can affordably gift your family beautiful, functional spaces. (StatePoint)

Screen-Free Holiday Gift Ideas That Inspire Kids

Shopping for holiday gifts for kids? Looking for activities that don’t involve a screen?

Consider toys and activities that will inspire them this holiday season and beyond. Here are four great gift ideas that will encourage kids to be creative and use their imaginations:

Arts And Craft

Craft kits give kids all the tools they need to take a project start to finish. Whether it’s beaded jewelry, scented soaps, or sand art, when projects are completed, kids will feel accomplished and inspired to take their crafting to the next level.

Horse Play

Create magnificent braids and let kids bring their own vision of horse beauty to life with a gift like Breyer Mane Beauty Styling Heads. Bringing a love of hair play and horses together, Mane Beauty Styling Heads are realistically sculpted and decorated with long, silky, no-tangle manes. Available in three styles -- Blaze (black mane), Daybreak (white mane) and Sunset (blonde mane) -- each styling head includes all the tools kids need like a mane comb, mane clips and elastics. Recommended for ages 5+, this gift is available at Tractor Supply, in stores and online. Visit breyerhorses.com to learn more.

Screen-Free Adventure

Getting lost in a good book is a rewarding adventure every kid should experience. No screens required! Reading inspires imagination and helps children explore worlds outside themselves. Give classic books that you loved as a child for a shared experience you both can enjoy. Traditional books are hugely popular again and are gifts that truly last.

Open-Ended Playtime

From kitchen playsets that foster interest in the culinary arts to workshop playsets that spark an interest in carpentry and

mechanics, playing pretend offers open-ended fun and helps kids build confidence and social skills.

This holiday season, make a list and check it twice to be sure that it includes gifts that inspire (StatePoint)

3 Ways to Treat Yourself With Self-Care This Holiday Season

2020has thrown us all a lot of curveballs, so it’s no surprise that the concept of self-care is getting a lot of traction in many health and wellness circles. Treating yourself with healthy activities can improve your mental and physical state and help you be more present with friends and family this holiday season.

Here are three ways to treat yourself and indulge in a little TLC, for everyone’s benefit, during the holidays.

Makeover Your Morning

Rise an hour before everyone else in your household to enjoy a cup

of coffee or tea. Use the time to meditate, stretch, write in a gratitude journal or visualize a successful day ahead.

Make a List of Your Favorite Things

Write down ideas that genuinely bring you joy and fill you with a sense of purpose. To ensure you’re finding time to do them, schedule them in your calendar. Activities could be anything from going for a run to buying fresh flowers or tackling an arts and crafts project.

Invest in New Gear Sometimes, the best motivator for getting active is a new piece

of clothing or accessory you feel confident wearing.

“Whether updating accessories to reflect the latest trends or choosing something to support daily step goals, new footwear is a great way to treat yourself,” says Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer Rack Room Shoes.

For those on-the-go, athletic styles such as Nike Air Max Excee and Brooks Ghost 12 running sneakers offer support to help reach health and wellness initiatives. To enjoy something ultra-comfortable that allows you to transition between activities easily or to wear when you

are lounging at home, try a classic Crocs with fun update – a fuzzy inner liner. And, to accessorize a stylish outfit, try a Dr. Martens Zavala combat boot available in various holiday-inspired colors.

Once you have the plan in place, get into a self-care routine that works for you. Doing so can help you enjoy the holidays while breathing a little easier. (StatePoint)

APPAREL JEWELRY

Santa

Season’s Greetings

Photos by: Gabriela Campos