Month: December 2024

Is everything what it seems?

Finding the right Christmas gifts for your grandchildren is no small feat, especially with so many choices out there! Here’s a curated list of ideas divided by age groups to help you pick the perfect gift for each child. From the little ones to the almost adults, you’ll find gifts that will light up their faces on Christmas morning.

1. Interactive Storybook Projector – This projector attaches to a smartphone to make bedtime stories more engaging with colorful projections that bring characters and scenes to life.
2. Coding Robot Kit – This kit introduces kids to basic coding through hands-on activities with a robot they can control and program.
3. Wireless Earbuds – High-quality wireless earbuds make a perfect gift for music-loving teens, delivering good sound quality and a stylish, portable design.
4. Science Experiment Kit – Science kits let kids experiment with chemistry and physics in a fun, hands-on way, igniting curiosity and learning.

Keep reading to discover many more Christmas gifts for grandchildren of all ages.

Gifts for Ages 0-5

Interactive Storybook Projector

Moonlite Storytime

An interactive storybook projector that attaches to a smartphone can turn bedtime into a magical experience. These projectors project vibrant images while you read along, making stories come alive in a new way.

Foldable Baby Play Mat for Floor

Foldable Baby Play Mat for Floor on Amazon

The Foldable Baby Play Mat is a spacious, extra-large mat measuring 79×71 inches, providing ample room for babies and toddlers to play, crawl, and explore. Made from non-toxic foam, this mat is thick and is cushioned.

Wooden Building Blocks

Colored Wooden Building Blocks – 85 Piece Set from Haba

Classic wooden building blocks never go out of style. Look for colorful, non-toxic options that are sturdy and safe for little hands. These blocks encourage fine motor skills and creativity.

Musical Instruments Set

Kids Musical Instruments, 33Pcs on Amazon

Help little ones discover a love of music early with a set of kid-safe musical instruments like tambourines, maracas, and xylophones. These sets are fantastic for developing rhythm, hand-eye coordination, and a sense of musicality.

Interactive Learning Tablet

LeapTab Touch Ages 3-5 yrs from LeapFrog – select the tablet for your grandchild’s age.

Many tablets designed for toddlers and preschoolers feature educational games, songs, and drawing tools that introduce colors, numbers, and letters. They’re also great for keeping children entertained on the go.

Toddler Scooter

Jetson Jupiter Mini 3-Wheel Kids’ Scooter at Target

For those just learning to get around, a sturdy, three-wheel scooter is perfect. Look for models with easy-grip handles, stable bases, and adjustable height settings so they can grow with the child.

Gifts for Ages 6-12

Coding Robot Kit

Makeblock Codey Rocky

A fun and educational gift, coding robots allow kids to learn basic programming concepts by controlling the robot’s movements, sounds, and lights. Look for kits with engaging activities and instructions that make coding accessible.

Arts and Crafts Set

Bob Ross For Kids Happy Lessons in a Box Set at Michael’s

Let their creativity soar with an arts and crafts set. Choose a kit that reflects their interests or includes a variety of materials, such as paints, clay, markers, and even sewing kits, so they can explore different types of art.

Digital Microscope for Kids

AmScope 4.3-inch Premium 1080P HD Portable LCD Color Digital Microscope with Dual-LED Illumination at AmScope

This portable digital microscope connects to a smartphone or tablet, allowing kids to explore the microscopic world around them in detail. With up to 220x magnification, it’s perfect for examining leaves, rocks, insects, and more, sparking curiosity about science and nature. Lightweight and easy to use, this microscope makes science exciting and accessible, encouraging young minds to discover hidden details and learn through observation.

LEGO Building Kits

Natural History Museum at LEGO

LEGO sets never go out of style and can be an engaging way for kids to problem-solve and create. Choose a set that aligns with their interests, like cars, space themes, or fantasy castles.

Science Experiment Kit

Complete Introduction to Earth & Space (Grades 3-5) at Home Science Tools

For curious minds, a science kit that includes materials for hands-on experiments can be the perfect gift. Chemistry sets, crystal-growing kits, and volcano-building kits are fun and educational choices.

Roller Skates or Inline Skates

CHICAGO Skates Premium White Quad Roller Skates at Amazon

Classic and fun, roller skates or inline skates are a fantastic way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and get moving. Choose skates with adjustable sizes so they last longer as your grandchild grows.

Virtual Reality Headset

Meta Quest 3 128GB on Amazon

A virtual reality headset for kids allows them to explore educational apps and games in a new, immersive way. Ensure you select an age-appropriate version that offers parental controls and easy navigation.

Gifts for Ages 13-17

Wireless Earbuds

Rail® ANC True Wireless Earbuds With Active Noise Canceling from Skullcandy

For teens who love music, wireless earbuds are a game-changer. Look for options with noise cancellation, decent battery life, and good sound quality. Many brands now offer affordable options with high-tech features.

Portable Phone Charger

INIU Portable Charger on Amazon

Help your teen stay connected with a portable charger for their phone or other devices. These are handy for long school days or travel and come in compact, stylish designs they’ll love.

LED Strip Lights

DAYBETTER Led Strip Lights 32.8ft Kit with Remote and Power Supply Color Changing on Amazon

Add some ambiance to their room with LED strip lights. Many options can be controlled via a smartphone app and allow color customization to create a personalized vibe. It’s a trendy gift that’s both affordable and popular with teens.

Instant Print Camera

Fujifilm – INSTAX MINI Evo Instant Film Camera from Best Buy

An instant print camera is a great gift for capturing memories and creating tangible keepsakes. Choose a model that’s simple to use, with affordable refills, and perhaps a few fun photo filters.

Fitness Tracker

Fitbit Inspire 3 Health &-Fitness-Tracker on Amazon

A fitness tracker can encourage teens to stay active while keeping track of their steps, sleep, and even heart rate. Many trackers also include challenges, which can make daily exercise a fun goal to work towards.

Subscription Box

DIY Kids STEM & Crafts Kit – Award Winning Kids Science and Art Box – 3, 6, or 12 months options from Cratejoy

There are subscription boxes for just about every interest, from books and beauty products to snacks from around the world. A monthly surprise can make this a gift that keeps giving well beyond the holiday season.

Graphic Novel Collection

Amazon Best Sellers in Teen & Young Adult Comics & Graphic Novels

Graphic novels are popular among teens, and there are collections available to suit all tastes, from superhero stories to historical tales. Many are beautifully illustrated, adding an artistic element to the reading experience.

Electric Scooter

Ninebot eKickScooter C2 from Segway

An electric scooter can offer a new level of independence. Look for models with appropriate speed settings and safety features, making them suitable for teens who need a bit of mobility in the neighborhood.

Personalized Jewelry

Custom Name Necklace, 18K Gold Plated on Etsy

A personalized piece of jewelry, like a bracelet or necklace with their name, initials, or birthstone, can be a special keepsake. This is a stylish and sentimental choice that allows them to express themselves.

From soft activity mats for little ones to electric scooters for teens, these Christmas gift ideas are designed to suit different ages, interests, and developmental stages. No matter what you choose, it’s the thought and love behind the gift that will make it memorable for your grandchildren.

Read 4 Tips for More Precious Moments Creating Art with Your Grandchildren.

Also, read How to Explore Diverse Holiday Traditions with Your Grandchildren.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Would your grandchildren like some of the gifts on our list? Do you have any other suggestions for gifts for grandchildren? Tell us about it in the comments.

Something changed for me as I entered my 60s. I felt excited by new possibilities and potential. I was surprised as I hadn’t expected to feel this way. The messages that I had received from my family around ageing were all about limitation and what we couldn’t do or achieve once we passed the age of 50.

However, aging isn’t about fading away; it’s about blossoming into the best version of yourself. Every year brings new wisdom, new strength, and yes, new beauty. As women over 60, we are in the most powerful chapter of our lives – one where we can embrace who we truly are, celebrate our journey, and feel fabulous in the process.

It’s time to stop viewing age as something to fear or fight against. Instead, let’s shift the narrative and see aging as an opportunity to thrive, to grow in confidence, and to treat ourselves with the love and care we deserve. After all, feeling fabulous isn’t about the number on your birth certificate – it’s about how you feel inside, how you care for yourself, and how you embrace the unique beauty that comes with every passing year.

#1. The Wisdom of Aging: Embracing the Journey

Aging is a privilege that not everyone gets to experience. My father died at thirty-five and my mother only lived to seventy. As I head into my mid-60s, I feel blessed to be here. I still have so much that I want to experience and do. With each year, we gain more wisdom, more resilience, and a deeper understanding of who we are.

We have weathered the storms. We have climbed our personal mountains and here we are, ready to meet a new day with courage, gratitude and hope in our hearts. As we age, we are given the opportunity to focus less on trying to meet others’ expectations and more on living authentically.

This is your time to embrace all the lessons life has taught you and to honour yourself for your journey. Instead of seeing age as a limitation, recognise it as a gift. You’ve likely navigated many challenges, celebrated countless victories, and learned what truly matters. This is the time to celebrate your unique story.

Your body may change, but your inner strength and grace only grow more profound. In ancient times, the power and wisdom of the elders were sought after to help guide and teach the community. It is time to reclaim this role for ourselves. It is time to say “Yes” to yourself, your dreams, your visions and your life’s journey. When we honour our life in this way, we also acknowledge our ancestors and the paths they have walked before us.

#2. Self-Care Is Essential

My mother put the needs of everyone in the family before herself. I remember watching as she would go above and beyond the call of duty to make someone else happy, only to be left exhausted and drained at the end of the day. Self-care simply wasn’t in her vocabulary.

She equated it with being selfish. However, caring for yourself is the most loving and caring thing you can do for those you love. Taking care of yourself isn’t just a “nice to have” at this stage of life – it’s essential. Self-care goes beyond the occasional indulgence; it’s about committing to your well-being every single day.

Your physical, mental and emotional health need to become your top priority. When you feel nourished and nurtured, you have energy to give and enjoy sharing it with others in a natural, easy way. Give yourself the gift of self-care first and watch it spill over into all areas of your life.

Prioritise Your Health

Small daily habits can make a big difference. Drink plenty of water, eat nourishing foods that give you energy. Move in a way that feels good to you. It could be a gentle yoga session, dancing, a morning walk, or simply stretching while you enjoy your morning coffee.

Pamper Your Skin

Skin changes as we age, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep it glowing and healthy. A moisturising routine can do wonders especially when you take the time to massage your skin gently and with love.

Nourish Your Soul

Mental and emotional health is just as important as physical health. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or journaling to stay grounded. Allow yourself to rest without guilt, recharge your energy, and embrace the peace that comes with slowing down.

#3. Body Confidence at Any Age: Love What You See in the Mirror

Body confidence is not about perfection; it’s about acceptance, appreciation, and love for the body you have today. As we age, our bodies change in ways we might not expect – but rather than focusing on what we don’t like, let’s celebrate the beauty and strength in our every wrinkle, line, and curve.

Redefine Beauty

Beauty doesn’t have an age limit. The wrinkles around your eyes? They’re a testament to a life filled with laughter and joy. Those silver strands of hair? They’re a sign of wisdom and experience. Our bodies may look different, but they still hold the power to move, to create, and to love.

Dress for Confidence

Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Embrace styles that fit your body, not ones you feel pressured to have. There’s no one “right” way to dress at any age – just what makes you feel fabulous.

Movement Is Key

The more you move, the more connection there is with your body. Our bodies love to be in motion. Indeed, there is a saying that “motion is lotion!” Whether it’s dancing, walking, swimming, or practicing yoga, regular movement helps build strength and keeps you feeling vibrant, energised and alive.

#4. The Power of Self-Love: Cultivating a Deep, Unshakable Love for Yourself

Self-love is the foundation of empowered aging. Loving yourself is a lifelong journey, one that becomes even more important as we grow older. This stage of life is an opportunity to show yourself compassion and to nurture and deepen the relationship you have with yourself.

Practice Daily Affirmations

Remind yourself each day that you are worthy of love, joy, and peace. Start your morning with an affirmation like, “I am beautiful, strong, and deserving of all the good things life has to offer.” Another lovely affirmation is to repeat gently, “Everything comes to me with ease and joy.”

Challenge Negative Thoughts

It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism, but aging gives us the chance to be kinder to ourselves. When those negative thoughts creep in, take a step back and replace them with thoughts of gratitude and appreciation for everything your body and mind have done for you. Never believe a self-limiting or negative thought – challenge it instead. Ask yourself if the thought is really true and let your answers come from your heart and your deepest knowing of who you authentically are.

Build a Supportive Circle

Surround yourself with people who lift you up and remind you of who you are. Whether it’s a close-knit group of friends or an online community, having people who support and celebrate you helps to cultivate a positive sense of self-love.

#5. Aging as Empowerment: Embrace Every Chapter

Growing older isn’t about becoming invisible – it’s about becoming more visible in your own life. It’s a time to reclaim your voice, live boldly, and celebrate everything you’ve achieved. There’s no need to shrink back or hold yourself back because of your age. In fact, you now have the wisdom and freedom to go after what you want without hesitation.

Live Life Boldly

This is your time to try new things! Pick up a new hobby, travel to that dream destination, or start a new project. You’re never too old to pursue your passions or explore something new.

Confidence Comes from Within

The beauty of aging is the freedom to finally shed the fears and insecurities you may have carried with you in earlier years. Step into your power and know that you are more than enough, just as you are.

So, here’s to feeling fabulous, confident, and empowered as we age. You are in the prime of your life – a time when self-love, body confidence, and self-care are more important than ever. Embrace the beauty of this stage, because there’s so much more to look forward to. This is your time to shine even brighter, to live even bolder, and to love yourself fully.

Please follow me on Instagram for more empowered aging tips, on fashion, fitness, positive thinking and inspired living. Let’s embrace this journey together!

Reflection Questions:

What’s one thing you do for yourself each day to feel fabulous? Share your self-care tips or body-confidence practices in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to keep embracing the power of empowered aging!

Selling your small business is more than a financial transaction – it’s an emotional journey. A business owner who’s been through that ordeal knows the feelings that arise: identity loss, the overwhelming urge to just “get it done,” and excitement mixed with anxiety.

I’ve written about these emotions that pop up during the process of selling your business before. Today I want to offer a strategy to help you navigate them: William Bridges’ transition model from his 2009 book, Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change.

Bridges teaches us that it’s not the change that gets you – it’s the transition. Change is external, like selling your business. Transition is internal, the psychological and emotional process you experience as you let go of the old and embrace the new.

Bridges breaks this process into three parts, which I like to think of as:

Leaving Egypt (Endings)

This is where it all starts – with letting go. Maybe you’re saying goodbye to a business that’s been your identity, your livelihood, your community. It’s bittersweet. You’re not just selling a business; you’re leaving behind routines, relationships, and a sense of self. If you need inspiration and maybe a smile, listen to a recording of the famous song from Frozen, “Let it go” performed by Idina Menzel. Pure genius.

Wandering in the Desert (The Neutral Zone)

This is the messy middle – the in-between time when the sale is final, but you haven’t yet settled into your next chapter. You might feel untethered, unsure of your path. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s also a time of tremendous growth and discovery if you let it be. One of the key points Bridges makes is that you don’t know how long this phase will last and you need to be patient. Key point: you have to be okay with feeling uncomfortable.

Finding the Promised Land (New Beginnings)

Finally, you step into the next phase. Maybe you’re starting a new venture, diving into a long-awaited retirement, or redefining your purpose. This is where you reclaim excitement and direction, finding clarity in the opportunities ahead.

Bridges’ main point for this phase is the best way to get through the desert is to make the image of your promised land vivid, clear, and emotional. I recommend the terrific article by Lily Bradshaw on Sixty and Me about creating the life you dream of.

Understanding these stages can help you manage the emotions that come with selling your business. Instead of resisting the process, you can embrace it, knowing that every ending leads to a new beginning – even if it means some wandering along the way.

If this resonates, I highly recommend reading Managing Transitions by William Bridges. His insights provide a framework for navigating the transitions in your life, including selling a business.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What stage of transition are you in right now? How do you feel about it?Drop your thoughts in the comments – I’d love to hear about your journey.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a couple this holiday season? Getting a gift for a couple has its share of challenges and difficulties. Generally, women and men have different tastes and hobbies, which can make it extra difficult to find a gift that they will both like and appreciate.

Here are our top 15 Christmas gifts for couples: 

1. Fun Pillowcases – Quirky pillowcases designed to bring a smile, perfect for adding a touch of humor and personality to their bedroom.
2. Charging Station – Keep all their devices organized and charged with a stylish multi-device charging station that reduces clutter.
3. Memories Photo Album – A customizable photo album to capture and celebrate their shared memories, making it a meaningful keepsake.
4. Set of Bed Sheets – Luxurious, high-quality sheets that offer a cozy, restful night’s sleep—a thoughtful gift for comfort lovers.
5. Meal Delivery Gin-Making Kit – A DIY kit that lets them create custom gin blends together, perfect for the couple who loves experimenting with flavors.
6. Pet Camera – Stay connected to furry friends with this camera that lets them check in, toss treats, and communicate with pets remotely.
7. Conversation Starter Cards – Thought-provoking cards designed to inspire deeper conversations and strengthen their bond.
8. A Hammock for Two –  A cozy hammock built for two, offering a relaxing escape for couples who love the outdoors.
9. Personalized Cutting Board – A beautiful, customized cutting board, great for couples who enjoy cooking and entertaining together.
10. Family Cookbook – A keepsake cookbook to store treasured family recipes, ready to pass down to future generations.
11. Kissing Mugs – Playful matching mugs that fit together, making morning coffee a little more romantic.
12. Personalized Map Location Key Holder – A unique key holder featuring their names and home location, adding a personal touch to their entryway.
13. Adult Craft Box – A monthly subscription with craft projects for a fun, creative date night right at home.
14. Molding Kit for Hands – A hand-casting kit allowing them to create a lasting sculpture of their hands together, a sweet and personal keepsake.
15. Couples Bucket List Journal – For the couple with great dreams. Get them a personalized bucket list journal for couples.

No need to fret! We’ve scoured the web to find 40 Christmas gift ideas for couples to suit every budget range. There’s something for every couple on our Christmas gift list for couples – from the foodies to the adventurers, from the home-bodies to the world travelers.

No matter if they have been married for many years or are newlyweds, there’s sure to be something on our list that will fit their lifestyle.

Fun Pillowcases

We love these fun and quirky cotton pillowcases. Perfect for the fun-loving couple on your list.

Charging Station

A perfect gift for the tech couple who have phones and tablets, this charging station can accommodate several devices at once.

Memories Photo Album

Create a photo book with memories of their lives together. There are several designs to choose from and you can customize each page as you wish.

Set of Bed Sheets

Gift the couple with a luxury set of bed sheets. Sleep is important and comfortable bed linen is a huge part of getting a good night’s sleep.

Meal Delivery

For the busy couple who doesn’t have time to plan meals. Have a box full of fresh ingredients and recipes delivered to their home.

Gin-Making Kit

Please the gin-loving couple on your list with this homemade gin-making kit.

Pet Camera

Do they have a dog and want to keep an eye on it while they are not home? This camera lets them watch their pet, toss treats, and send voice messages to their furry friend when they aren’t home.

 Conversation Starters

A set of cards with thought-provoking questions that the couple asks each other to make their bond and relationship stronger.

A Hammock for Two

Great way to relax and sleep together. A hammock designed for 2 people is a great gift idea for the campers on your list.

Personalized Cutting Board

This beautiful maple cutting board is personalized with the couple’s names.

Family Cookbook

Let the couple keep their precious family recipes and also pass these valuable recipes on to their future generations with this customizable cookbook.

Kissing Mugs

Adorable matching kissing mugs. Need we say more!

Personalized Map Location Key Holder

How cute is this! Personalize a key holder for their home by adding a personal message and a map with the location of their home.

Adult Craft Box

Get the crafty couple a monthly subscription for a thoughtfully curated craft box with all the supplies necessary to create some new personal works of art.

Molding Kit for Hands

Get them a hand casting kit so they can hold hands forever. It’s easy to use and comes with clear instructions.

Couples Bucket List Journal

For the couple with great dreams. Get them a personalized bucket list journal for couples.

Personalized Star Map

Capture a special moment, such as their wedding date or the day they met, with a customized star map that shows the night sky as it was on that day. A romantic keepsake they can hang in their home.

Cold Beer Coats

For the beer-loving couple who like their drinks cold. These amusing cold drink holders are sure to please! Keeps the drinks cold and the hands warm.

Scratch the World Map

Great gift for the world-traveling couple. A map of the world poster where they can scratch off the places they have been.

Foodie Dice

Can’t decide what to make for dinner? Roll the dice for some yummy inspirations.

Custom Couple Portrait

Have them immortalized in a custom portrait. Sure to brighten their home and remind them of their love daily.

Gift Basket

Send them a gift basket full of Holiday goodies.

100 Dates Scratch Poster

This poster lets the couple scratch-off exciting ideas for dates.

Datebox Club

Get the happy couple a monthly subscription to the Datebox Club. The dates are designed to help couples do something new & fun together.

Taste of Mexico

For the couple who loves Mexico, this molcajete and tortilla basket kit will have them whipping up yummy guacamole in the traditional way.

Bar Tools Set

A good-quality bar tools set for the cocktail lovers on your list.

Monthly Wine Club

Do you have a wine-loving couple on your list? Have fine wines delivered straight to their home with a monthly membership to a wine club.

Double Loveseat Camp Chair

A foldable outdoors double loveseat chair is perfect for the outdoorsy campers on your list.

Date Night Jar

A personalized date night wish jar is excellent for the romantic couple.

Personalized Passport Cases

Help them keep their passports safe and fashionable. These personalized passport covers are excellent for the globe-trotting couple.

Katamino Game for Two

Fun brain-teaser game for a couple. Excellent for those nights in.

Couple’s Massage Gift Certificates

How about a couple’s massage? Get the couple a gift card that they can use to book their relaxing massages.

Personalized Serving Board and Beer Flights

What a great gift for the couple who enjoys entertaining! This handmade wood board and beer flight can be personalized with the couple’s names, family name, and initials.

Bluetooth Record Player

For the music-loving couple, a vintage-style record player with Bluetooth capability adds a retro charm to their space. They can enjoy old records or stream modern playlists wirelessly.

Sexy Truth or Dare

This adult version of the classic pick-up sticks game for couples includes 50 sticks, each with two exciting and seductive challenges for a playful and romantic twist.

Picnic Backpack

Do they enjoy eating outside and having picnics together? This modern picnic basket will be a definite hit for the outdoorsy couple.

Large Throw Blanket

Personalize an extra-large throw blanket that they can snuggle under together.

National Parks Annual Passes

Get the adventuring couple passes to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges. 

Read SENIORS GUIDE TO THE TOP 10 U.S. NATIONAL PARKS.

Custom Pet Pillow

Know a couple obsessed with thor pet(s)? Get them a personalized photo pillow of their furry family member. 

Couples Journal

Get the couple a connection journal to share. The weekly journal will open up conversations that will strengthen, heal, and enliven any relationship. The 52 weeks of prompts and tips are thoughtfully curated using leading methodology to help build a more fulfilling relationship as they both write in it just once a week.

Read 14 TOP FAMILY CHRISTMAS GIFTS.

And also HOW TO GIVE AND RECEIVE GIFTS GRACIOUSLY DURING THE HOLIDAYS.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What do you think of our list? Do you have any suggestions to add to our Christmas gifts for couples? What is the best couple’s gift you ever received? Leave your comment below. Let’s have a conversation!