Mel’s Holiday Gift Guide
I started posting holiday gift guides way back in 2014 (!!). They are some of my favorite posts. I get so many great ideas from your comments! And I just really love sharing things we genuinely love (nothing is sponsored).
However, this year, between my very strong desire to simplify the holidays, the supply chain/shipping delays, and the cost of many things skyrocketing, I’ve decided to carry that simplification over to the gift guides.
{I’ve also very intentionally tried to buy less “stuff” this year and try to regain control over the closets and rooms filled to the brim with stuff we already have. Anyone else feeling a nervous twitch coming on at the thought of accumulating more stuff?? Just me?}
Anyway, that’s a long intro to basically just say that instead of doing three gift guides this year like I’ve done in the past (games, kids, everything else), I’m compiling just one gift guide this year. It’s short and sweet! And most importantly: simple! That’s my holiday theme this year for sure.
If you are looking for more gift inspiration, my archives are LOADED with seven years of past gift guides, and I can whole heartedly say, I would still recommend every single thing on them. They are filled with gems! (Both in the gift guide and especially in the comments!)
For now, here are some of my favorite things (always random, I know) that are worthy of a share this year! (As always, nothing is sponsored but there are affiliate links for some things I’ve bought from Amazon.)
Any gift recommendations to share? Comment below! I love getting new ideas from all of you!
1. Domino Maze {aff. link}: we love Thinkfun games, and this Domino Maze {aff. link} is one of our newer favorites (enough that we’ve gifted it to several friends for birthdays this year).
2. Ubongo {aff. link}: a bit like Tetris on a board game, this is one game we pull out all the time because you can play for a short time or a long time…and it’s fun either way! Cam and I play this one together a lot.
3. Trekking the National Parks {aff. link}: this is a personal favorite! Not only do I love visiting National Parks in person, but having all of them on a fun board game with a bit of strategy is like the perfect combination. Love this game!
4. Cover Your Kingdom {aff. link}: it’s no secret we’re huge fans of all the Grandpa Beck games, but Cover Your Kingdom {aff. link} is winning right now. We took it on a family Labor Day trip and played it constantly in the evenings…and haven’t stopped since being home. It’s like Cover Your Assets {aff. link} with a clever twist (and the artwork is phenomenal as always).
5. Goat Lords {aff. link}: this is a new-to-us game, and WE LOVE IT! Continuing with the Cover Your Assets theme, it’s similar to that game (stacking sets) with a few different rules, which makes it interesting and unique enough to keep it around! We are loving quick card games these days, and this one fits the bill.
6. Taco vs. Burrito {aff. link}: my kids think this game is a total hoot. It is the game of choice for my 12- and 14-year old right now. I’m not going to lie, the food combinations in this game make me inwardly gag, but it also definitely brings out my competitive reflex. (Spoiler alert: I never stinking win.)
7. Dicecapades: I found this game at a local game store, and it was definitely worth the risk of buying it without knowing anything about it. All the different shapes of dice (die??) and clever cards make it a game our whole family enjoys playing together.
8. Scattergories Categories {aff. link}: another game store find, this was a sure fire win because we already love classic Scattergories. This twist on the original is very, very fun (best played with tweens and older).
9. Sneaky Snacky Squirrel {aff. link}: this game comes as a very high recommendation from my friend, Deb, who has ten kids and several toddlers still at home. Also, this pancake pileup game {aff. link} is a huge favorite of theirs, too. I was grateful for her recommendations since I don’t have young kids at home! Apparently, they play these nonstop (as a whole family, but especially to include the younger kids).
10. Pura: I finally jumped on the Pura bandwagon this year, and I have zero regrets! I have several of them in my house, and I love the light fragrance they provide without having to burn candles or melt wax. I keep mine on the lowest setting because I’m not a fan of super in-your-face fragrant smells (I get headaches from strong scents), but my house smells amazing, and it makes me happy. The Capri Blue Volcano is my favorite scent, but I’m also loving their cranberry holiday fragrances.
11. Ramp Shot {aff. link}: this outdoor game is like a combination of corn hole and spike ball (both favorites of ours), and my boys and Brian want me to tell you guys how fun it is (it requires a bit more movement than I’m willing to do most evenings, so I sit and watch). Highly recommend! The rules were a bit tricky to figure out at first, but the video online was super helpful, and the boys picked it up quick.
12. Kubb {aff. link}: we have a homemade version of this game, but we’ve gifted this version to several friends (and a parent or two). It is hands down one of our favorite back yard games!
13. Trampoline Basketball Hoop {aff. link}: we gifted this to the kids last Christmas, and to say it has provided hours and hours of outside fun is a bit of an understatement. A year later, and it still is as fun as the day it was installed!
14. DIY Fairy Lantern {aff. link}: this is such a cute, fun little crafting kit. Cam put it together earlier this year, and it still has a place in her room. It’s been a great gift for some of her friends that have had birthdays, too.
15. STEM Solar Robot {aff. link}: we love this kit! You (er, I mean, the kids) can build upwards of 12 different robots that are solar and cell powered. Pretty cool! It’s a bit elementary for older kids, but great for ages 8-11.
16. Wild Republic Sloth Stuffie {aff. link}: we have a thing for stuffed animals around here, and this sloth is an argued-over favorite. That, and this sea turtle {aff. link}. I love the unique animals from this brand. They’re adorable and super soft.
17. LEGO Duplo Farm {aff. link}: another recommendation for younger kids, my friend, Deb, said the LEGO Duplo farm and town kits {aff. link} are the most played with toys in her house (so much so that she finally bought two sets!).
18. Knife Sharpener: this knife sharpener was recommended to me, and I have been so pleased with it! I have struggled to keep my knives really sharp and in good shape, and have tried so many other knife sharpeners. This is the best one I’ve ever used! (And my kids agree – they use it for their pocketknives.)
Speaking of knives, besides my favorite inexpensive bread knife {aff. link} and these mini serrated knives {aff. link} which I use all the time, my go-to high-quality knives are all from New West Knifeworks. I can’t say enough good things about their knives (totally unsponsored). If you’re looking for a knife upgrade, investing in these knives is the way to go. I’ve had mine for years and love them. I have the 8- and 9-inch chef’s knives, the mini santoku, the pairing knife, and the regular santoku.
19. Keurig (for hot chocolate): I bought a Keurig to use for hot chocolate, and even though I wanted it to be a hit, I didn’t realize we would use it as much as we have. My kids make hot chocolate every day, and I LOVE that they can make single serve mugs without getting out all the whisks, measuring cups, spoons, etc, and leaving a huge mess. I am mentally allergic to keeping things out on my counter full-time, but this has earned a spot. We’ve bought hot chocolate pods on Amazon and also from Keurig. Our trick to making the hot chocolate taste good (a common critique of the hot chocolate pods is that they are watery and bland) is to use 6 ounces of water instead of 8 ounces. My kids love it!
20. AirPods Pro cases {aff. link}: a great stocking stuffer idea, several of my kids (after saving up to buy AirPods) have these funny cases (one has a goldfish case, one has a fruit snacks case). Not only do they help keep the AirPods straight, but they’re clever and fun.
21. Aloha Nut Butter: I have tried several different flavors of the OffBeat nut butters, and this aloha nut butter is AMAZING. It’s my favorite by far. Almost every day, I have spoonfuls of it on a banana, and my goodness, it’s terrific.
Hey Mel! It is Tiffany (Smedley) Muir. I have used your gift guides to find games to give our family for Christmas. Thanks for all the ideas, we love playing games together!
My brother and his wife recently created a new game called “Don’t Cross Me.” Our family has really enjoyed it. It is a “Devious card game of intersecting sets and runs.” I have tried to paste a picture or link, but wasn’t able to in this comment field. But there is a video on Amazon on how to play it. That way you can see if it is something your family might enjoy:).
Thank you for the gift guide! Do you have a kids cookbook that you recommend for a girl who is 10 years old. Thank you!
This is my favorite kids cookbook and would be great for a 10-year old
Thank you so much! Your gift guides have been a lifesaver!
Sence the postage has gone up so high I’ve desired to send cash this year. All my kids and grand kids live in other states. I spend $100 to$200 to mail packages. That’s money I can use for other things
Love your gift guides every year!! Ordered Jokers and Marbles on time this year ….and last year’s hit was actually Dragonwood! We play it over and over. 🙂
We love “Sneaky Snacky Squirrel” with our little kids. Warning: be aware that parents and silly children may nickname the Squirrel-shaped tongs the “Nut Grabbers,” And you may hear that yelled throughout your house. “Give me back those Nut Grabbers!” “I can’t grab my nuts without the Nut Grabbers,” As a kid, it never gets old. As a mom, it kind of does.
Love your gift guides! So out of the two Cover Your Assets type games, if you could only pick one, would you choose Goat Lords or Cover Your Kingdom?
Oh, that’s a hard question. Goat Lords is a bit easier to learn the rules to so if that’s playing into your decision, I’d go with that one. But if I could only keep one, I’d probably keep Cover Your Kingdom (both are so fun, though)
To clear out some of our stuff we told the kids they each have to give or throw away a couple unused or broken toys before Christmas. Thanks for the ideas!
Just told my kids about checking your gift guide for games for my nephews and here it is! Perfect! Thank you for sharing all that you share, I do enjoy it.
Thanks, Donna!
If it’s not already on any of your lists-Klask! Just as much fun for adults as kids
Yes! Love that one!
We love Cover Your Kingdom! I’ve got Trekking already for under the tree. We’ve played it before and like it! And we used to have Sneaky Snacks Squirrels….if you have young kids get this game! Any age can play! Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is another fun one that anyone can play…..it might get a little vicious at my house. My son doesn’t realize how hard he slaps his hand down. Thanks Mel! I always know I can find something great for my family with your gift guide!
I’m excited to try the taco cat goat cheese pizza one. Have a feeling it’ll be a little brutal here too. Haha.
We have to wear cheap winter gloves at our house when we play TCGCP. And nobody’s allowed to wear rings. It gets intense!!
Mel – your guides are the best. I have so many great games because of you. Also that blue, flexible racetrack from a few years ago and a bunch of other good stuff I can’t specifically remember right now, but you are my go-to. Nut butters will be a must try!! I also want to put in a shameless plug related to you. Homemade burritos – you are the queen. My husband and I hated the way they would get dried out or would stick to the paper towel or have cold spots. We invented a Burrito Buddy – a silicone heating sleeve for frozen burritos that eliminates those issues. A perfectly cooked burrito every time. I wanted to send you one but I know you don’t take free stuff. It makes a good stocking stuffer 🙂 It’s on Amazon. I don’t think I can put a link here. Thanks for all your work on these guides!!
Thanks for telling me about the burrito buddy, Wendie! I’m going to check it out! And I’ll include a non-affiliate link here for anyone that might want to check it out too. UPDATE: here’s a link for the burrito buddy.
You are the best. Thank you!!
I forgot to mention, if someone is looking for a bit higher end hot chocolate maker with absolutely amazing taste (indulgent, cafe style) I bought the Hotel Chocolate Velvetiser last year for myself and then for a gift. It’s amazing (albeit not cheap). My mom loves it. A perfect one cup machine.
Thanks! I’ve seen this on my feed and wondered!
I buy their packets because they are so good and easy. My kids prefer the cheap stuff from the grocery store or even homemade power but it still works in the velvetiser.
Thanks for the recommendation, Wendie! Sounds like something I would love!
The Keurig reminded me, but have you tried or do you like Crio bru or Choffey or similar? I ordered it at a local shop and it was super watery and bland. But reading about it online it sounds like it should be awesome.
I’ve tried Crio bru several times and I just can’t get into it. I always think I must be missing something when I drink it. It doesn’t do much for me.
I’ve been waiting for this…we always get several of your game recommendations for Christmas! Thank you!!
Thanks, Eleisha!
I love your gift lists! We like kubb as well but got even more into the Finnish lawn game Molkky, or Scatter Skittles as it’s also called. There are several versions on Amazon and you can have any number of players. We have introduced many of our friends and family members to this game and they’ve all loved it!!!
Thanks for the recommendation!
Mel, do you have to use the hot chocolate pods with this machine?
Or can you use the powder hot chocolate after the milk or water is heated??
I don’t want to have to worry about keeping the pods In stock!
You can definitely just dispense the hot water with this (it’s instantly hot – my kids use the hot water function for malt-o-meal and oatmeal packets) and use it for traditional hot chocolate.
I’ve been looking for a good knife sharpener, how does this do sharpening your serrated knives?
Hmmm, that’s a good question. I haven’t tried sharpening serrated knives on this…might be a good question to reach out and ask the manufacturer!
Thank you! Your gift guides are the best. I have bought many of your gift recommendations and love the thought you put into these.
Does anyone have any great game ideas to play while standing in line at Disney?
We do flash cards and when they pass of a set of cards (whatever it is they are learning x facts, state capitals, etc) they earn a Disney treat. Keeps them interested in the flash cards and works their brains. You can get flash card apps so you don’t have to carry the cards around.
Hi Chantele, this isn’t a hard copy game, but when we’ve waited in lines before, we have downloaded the game/app Heads up on our phone and it’s a great one to play in lines.
Fun ideas, as always, Mel! Thank you!!!
Thank you, Lynne!
Thank you! I absolutely love and look forward to your gift guides!
Thanks, Jill!
Thank you so much Mel! I look forward to these each year and refer back to past guides often for gift ideas throughout the year. You’re the best and I’m so grateful for all of your recipes, guides, ideas and positive space on the internet!!!
Thank you so much, Haley! Seriously, thank you.
Thanks Mel!! Our game closet loves you.
Aw, thanks, Heather!! My game closet currently needs a major overhaul and cleanup. 🙂
Thank you for this simplified list! Do you have specific hot chocolate pod recommendations? I trust your (and your kiddos’) discerning palate.
And not cleaning up hot chocolate powder from off of my counters everyday will be a Christmas miracle!
Also, just discovered an easy, quick, fun, but brain required game that you might enjoy:
Blue Orange Dr. Eureka Speed Logic Game
I look forward to your gift guides every year! Thanks for getting it out early–yay!
Thanks, Marissa!
Thank you for this simplified list! Do you have specific hot chocolate pod recommendations? I trust your (and your kiddos’) discerning palate.
And not cleaning up hot chocolate powder from off of my counters everyday will be a Christmas miracle!
Also, just discovered an easy, quick, fun, but brain required game that you might enjoy:
Blue Orange Dr. Eureka Speed Logic Game https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CKI02RU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_ZH2J910NH98YJ3C78852?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Thank you for the recommendation, Carolee!! Excited to check it out. My kids love the Swiss miss pods, I’m a fan of the darker chocolate ones from Keurig (the Cafe Elite dark chocolate hot chocolate). They key, we’ve found, is to only use 6 ounces of water instead of 8 so it’s a bit richer in flavor.
Just the best – oh my goodness! Thank you Mel!
**One game has already been ordered!
Thank you, Kim!
Taco vs Burrito for ever and ever! If you haven’t tried the card game Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, that’s another really fun one!
My kids were telling me about that card game the other day!!
I’d love your suggestion for an intermediate robotics kit (my kid is 13 and he has done beginner kits), I am just out of my element! I get a game of yours every year and we play it on Christmas day! Thanks!
Hi Shauna, I don’t own this one, but I’ve heard great things about it for teens. Also, is your child interested in electrical circuits at all? We love snap circuits, and I know they have some advanced kits.
I’ve been waiting for this list! In the past several years I’ve purchased SO many of the games you’ve recommended, and they’ve all been huge hits. One of my favorite things to do is buy new games each Christmas (I have 4 kids and wrap one for each with a note to share – they know it’s going to be a game) and then we enjoy playing them (and it has the added bonus of extra family time and less electronic time for the kids). I’m going to have a hard time narrowing it down again this year – so many good suggestions!
I love that tradition, Melissa!
I agree! I always look forward to your gift guides. For you Mel, and anyone else who would be willing to chime in: what are your favorite pura scents??
I haven’t tried tons, but right now my favorite holiday scents are cranberry bliss and tinsel and spice. I also love the coconut calm (it’s in the one by my mudroom/bath) and the capri blue volcano is probably my all-time favorite.
Thank you for sharing this guide early. This year I’m trying to plan ahead to make life less complicated during the holidays. My family has loved so many of the game recommendations you have given.
I hear you, Bridget! Definitely trying to do the same.
Ooh! Can’t wait to try more of your game suggestions! I’m also an offbeat butter enthusiast and if you haven’t tried the mint chocolate chip cookie yet, you have to get it next time. It is SO GOOD!!
I’ll try that one, Bonnie!!
Hey Mel,
If you aren’t already familiar with the blog “becoming minimalist”, I think you might find it very interesting. I started reading it earlier this year with the intent of de cluttering, buying less and shifting even further away from materialism. I had no idea that so many different aspects of my life could be impacted so greatly by applying a minimalist attitude…..finances, the space you live in, diet, relationships, etc…..the list goes on and on. It truly transformed my way of thinking on just about everything and life just feels easier somehow and the load doesn’t feel so heavy anymore. Just a suggestion is all. Your last Friday Thoughts post made my heart ache a little for you is all. I’ve been where you are with regards to therapy and finally taking that step. And even though that was years ago for me; I truly believe that we are all a work in progress and our work here isn’t done until we take our last breath. So keep digging deep, keep questioning, keep learning and keep putting one foot in front of the other. “After all, tomorrow is another day!”
Thank you so much for that suggestion, Vicki! I appreciate it so much.
Pura question! How often do you need to change out your fragrance?? I’ve been wanting to go for it for a bit now because I want to feel like I live inside Anthropologie but if one vial only lasts a week I’m thinking I should literally just go live at Anthro instead 🙂 It might be a bit too much $$ for me!
Haha. I hear you! I feel the same. I keep the scent on the lowest setting (a 1 or a 2 – it’s controlled by your phone). I’ve had the scents going for a month now and they are just now showing low fragrance. I’m hoping to get another week out of them. If you turn the scent up to a 3 or 4 (which is I think what Pura recommends for a very noticeable scent), they might only last two weeks.
Mel, I need your help. Did you once have a muffin tin that doesn’t really fit stand muffin liners. It’s narrower on the bottom and has a nice muffin top on the top. I thought it was USA brand but I have only been able to find the standard size. Thanks!!!
Hi Alicia – I don’t think I’ve ever had one like that?? The one I talk about a lot is the USA muffin tin. It’s considered a standard size but the muffin wells are slightly deeper than my other standard muffin tins which I like – I feel like the muffins dome better in the USA pan (and never overflow).
I have one of those pans (can’t remember what it’s called), but it was a USA brand and I got it from Williams Sonoma.
I live for your holiday gift guides! Thanks, Mel! Will probably order one of everything tomorrow. And I LOVE the simplification – I’m trying to do the same thing this year. Yay for less stuff!
Thanks, Jacqui!!
LOVE your lists every year. Thank you for posting it early.
game ideas for younger kids: Lemonade Shakeup. It’s a cooperative for 4+, but we all like to play it.
for bigger kids: Marvel United. This is another cooperative game where you play a super heroes (with AWESOME minis) to defeat a villain. So fun. There is an Avenger and Xmen version. I think the box says 8+, which is probably about right, but my husband and I enjoy playing just the two of us.
Thanks for the recommendations!!
my kids outgrew your kids/games gift guides years ago….why do i still pore over them slowly and click on the links!?!?:)
Haha, you sound like me, Sandra! I love reading through other people’s suggestions, even if I never plan to buy a thing!
LOVE your gift guides thank you!
Thanks, Johanna!