This collection of my favorite things are centered around specific interests or fun activities. I think some of my choices might be unique to my taste, but there are usually other colors/designs available and I can give my very satisfied customer review for each of these purchases!
Ideas are just that. It might be perfect for what you are looking for – – or it may be a starting place to inspire the ideal find. Let me know if my suggestions help you!
I was actually inspired to purchase several of these items by other people who shared them during the Pandemic Lockdowns when I was needing some creative distraction and new acitivities at home. Others were gifts that I have given to others, and I was really happy with the quality at the time.
Let me tell you about each of them… (as always – links may be affiliate links, meaning I may recieve a small commission if you purchase something after using my link)
1. Photo Portfolio – several of my siblings have become serious about photography as adults. When my brother started offering photo shoots, I decided to give him a professional-style portfolio to display his best work. It could become something that he shows his clients, or he could just keep it for his own memories. I am not knowledgable about photography – – but I thought it was great quality and he seemed pretty happy with it!
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2. Paint By Number – if you enjoyed paint-by-number as a child, did you know there are also adult versions?! I did NOT know that. Or at least I didnʻt know I could find pictures that I actually liked! If you are like me and not quite confident enough in your artistry skills to paint a blank canvas – – or just sometimes enjoy something creative that allows your brain to just relax itʻs focus – – this is for you! I enjoyed my first painting so much during Lockdown that I bought a second one and also gave one to several friends. I purchased the canvas without the frame, and then bought a cheap framed canvas from Ross Stores to use to hang it.
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3. Prayer Necklace – I think this necklace is so sweet! Itʻs like a locket, but you insert a prayer or thought/affirmation you want to carry with you rather than a photo. It is a tiny barrel shape with a hinged lid. I gifted this to a friend who had shared some things on her heart, and she cried when she opened it.
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4. Kantha Quilt – do you know how hard it is to find blankets (at affordable prices) that arenʻt made with synthetic materials? Last winter I finally reverted to online options and was very happy to find this cotton, hand-made quilt from India. It is super comfortable, and gave a much-needed pop of color in my very neutrally decorated home. I would gift this with a book and candle to someone who needs some extra cozy or relaxation.
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5. Cotton Patchwork Blanket – yes, I know! I shared TWO similar blankets… However – I use them very differently! I actually ordered this blanket first, but when I arrived I decided that it was the perfect picnic blanket. If this inspires you for a gift, maybe include a small charcuterie kit and a fun drink for a ready-made picnic.
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6. Canvas Backpack – this was a somewhat recent purchase for myself to use when hiking. Again – I prefer items that are made with more natural than synthetic materials. I was very pleased with the quality, and it actually is not designed to be a hiking backpack and will fit a laptop and quite a bit of other content. Gift this to your favorite student.
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7. Botanical Puzzle – did you revive your puzzle collection during these past few years like I did? I saw someone share a photo of this puzzle on Instagram and simply HAD to have it for myself! Itʻs a little more commitment than I usually prefer at 1,000 pieces (300 – 500 pieces are my sweet spot), but itʻs so pretty that it was totally worth it! This is the perfect gift for your other plant-obsessed friends, or there are hundreds of other options to choose from.
I almost didnʻt share this collection because it feels a bit “random.” But we often just need ONE gift idea for someone rather than an entire list to choose from, so I hope you were inspired.
Several of these items were part of activities that I found to help me through the first year of the Pandemic.
What new things did you try – – or what old interests did you revive – – when you were stuck at home?
Tell us in the comments!
Meanwhile – happy shopping!
xo
Danielle