Christmas shopping brings holiday stress

Published 8:16 am Wednesday, December 17, 2014

One of the most stressful experiences of the Christmas season involves shopping for loved ones on your list.

Not everyone has Christmas shopping down to an exact science. At times your gift, no matter how well intended, may be opened by a very confused recipient.

When selecting an item for your loved one, try to consider their hobbies.

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If your recipient is into knitting or quilting, reusable supplies for their favorite craft could make a great gift. If you are unsure of what supplies they have on hand, a gift card to their favorite store will allow them to select the supplies they need.

For the technologically inclined on your list try to stay away from selecting specific titles for movies or music unless you are sure of their tastes and what is already in their library. Instead focus on accessories that would help them enjoy their iPod, gaming console or computer more. Headphones, a fancy headset or a nice carrying case are some ideas. But again, try to ensure you are not giving them an item they already own.

Car enthusiasts may enjoy a kit of cleaning supplies, a scale model of their dream ride or a pair of driving gloves.

For the fitness enthusiast in your life consider a nice water flask, backpack or smart pedometer.

Nature lovers may find a lot of use out of a brand new bird feeder, birdhouse or a bat house. Bat houses are great ways to tempt the flying mammals into making a home near yours. Bats feed primarily on insects, so they are a great way to reduce the mosquito population around a home.

If you are still having trouble finding the perfect gift for someone, you can never go wrong with a gift card to a locally owned retailer. It will serve two purposes; they will be introduced to a shop they may have never visited, and also promote the local economy.