Giving joy is the best thing ever. But personally, I think there is something even better: giving someone meaningful joy that will last through the whole year and actually change their day.

In little, daily ways.

I’m not talking profound here. Although profound gifts are awesome-  they can be a lot of pressure. Which is the last thing we need this time of year.

So today, I’m talking simple (like always).  About gifts that give tiny glimpses and reminders to the people you love most about the power of feeling and seeing beauty, feeling calm, inspired, soothed and happy. Or, the gift of feeling more light-hearted, fun and alive in daily life.

How people feel daily is powerful. It’s one of the biggest parts to a healthy life. And we all need more good in our thoughts, feelings and daily routines.

So this year, instead of buying random gift card or half-hearted bottle of wine, consider giving someone more of the feeling that they probably crave in life. To be more joyful, wild, calm, free, happy or thoughtful. So, here are some of my favorite ideas [and why]. Happy giving!

[little daily joys]

Rifle Notebooks or Calendar [papersource]

Because little daily beauty is always inspiration, whether you’re being more mindful of each and every day and season (and how fast they can go) or being more intentional with your life and thoughts and goals. Or, as great desk art. 

Artisan Mugs [anthropologie]

 

For coffee, tea, healthy hot toddy’s, maca hot chocolate [don’t worry, recipes coming soon my darling] or a stunning and smile-inducing pen holder. 

Art Prints [etsy]

 

I mean, how can you not be happy when you look at this?

Sunburst Mirror [target]

 

Love this piece of functional art, and would fit with almost any decor style. Gold is always golden. And under $100.

Portable Phone Charger [urban outfitters]

You’d be lying if you said you didn’t need this. 

Travel Bag [etsy]

 

The perfect functional and cool gift, for men or women. Travel in style [to the office, your workout, weekend trips], no matter what you’re busy life entails. 

Weighted Cocktail Glass [crate and barrel]

 

I own one of these and wish I had more. Love the heavy weight and perfectly small cocktail portion- for men or women. Actually anything looks good in this glass [drinks, flowers, nuts + snacks too]. Pair with the idea below for a perfect little experience. 

Gold Cocktail Bar Set [west elm]

 

Just because I want it. Home bars are the way to go (healthier cocktails be default). 

[beauty]

EOS lip balm [sweet mint or variety pack]

Get the sweet mint. That’s all you need to know. So great for winter chapped lips and a after meal refresher for your face. For men and women alike. Also found at various drugstores.

Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer [rhubarb]

For the days when you need a little something, but not a full face of makeup. Think pre or post workout, weekends, or for a subtle rosy hint of color that also moisturizes. Also found at PCC, Whole Foods, and a wide variety of drugstores. 

Sephora Cream Lipstick [jealous]

The best lipstick, hands down and the easiest way to bring a little daily beauty and fun to your life, under $15.  I always have one on me. 

Acure Anti-Wrinkle Complex Face Cream

The best light face lotion for mornings or night- I’m often surprised how fast it absorbs and how quickly I can see a difference in my skin. This stuff works and is 100% natural. Can also be found at PCC and Whole Foods. 

Rose Day Cream

 

If moisture is your kryptonite, this  thicker night time lotion this is your ticket. The rose smell is a bit strong, but the ingredients are so pure! Plus, apparently JLO has been using it for years.  I’ll listen to her skin advice any day. Also found at PCC and Whole Foods. 

Essie Polish [chinchilly] [solemate]

 

 Two favorite colors to keep your winter colorful and fun. Available at any drugstore. 

[clothing]

Fur Vest [target]

 

The questionable purchase that I now can’t stop wearing. For when your black sweater gets too boring. Don’t take life too seriously. 

Snood Scarf [zara]

Because clothes that feel like blankets are the best thing ever. 

Leather Leggings [target]

 

Sassy leggings. Necessary. 

Mid length puffer [zara]

 

It’s winter. It’s cold. Having a cute, warm, long jacket is a healthy lifestyle must. Don’t be scared to go outside with a beauty like this that will never go out of style. 

[for a healthy life]

Fit Bit

I don’t personally have one of these but I love the idea- a little extra accountability to tell you how much you’re moving and sleeping, with weekly visual reports. Only purchase for someone that will be able to overlook the  calorie counting feature, because that will be the opposite of helpful.

Vitamix

Did you know you can now buy refurbished models at half the cost? If you don’t have a good blender, you’re not really living. See other great models at all price points here

Lodge Cast Iron Pan [target]

The # 1 most used thing in my kitchen. I cook everything in here, and it always comes out with great texture [read: not mushy]. Fish, veggies, eggs, meat, you name it. And the 12 inch option gives you some room, because nothing is more annoying that a pan that’s too small. Food needs room to cook and crisp and sear properly!

Moto Leggings [gap]

 

 

Love these pants. For workouts, weekend lounging, or with long cozy sweaters, these will be your new favorite pair. 

The Simply Real Health Cookbook [here]

 I mean, duh. Come on. 150 real food recipes for real life, from your favorite food blog, in a beautiful coffee table hard cover binding. Who couldn’t use that? Buy now and get a printable gift certificate and sample recipe to wrap up. Books arrive in late February. 

 

Psst! Are you a Seattlite? Stay tuned for a very special local gift guide post, coming soon!