The frenzy of the holiday season is upon us. Or I should say some of us. For years, the holiday season in my own household has been quiet. We spend the days leading up to the end of December doing enjoyable activities together such as reading by the fireplace or playing board games.  That is our tradition and it is right for us.

For others, the holiday tradition includes parties, festive meals, decorations and the exchange of gifts, large and small.  To help you with the gifting tradition – and especially the small gifts – I have come up with a holiday gift guide to help you select the perfect gift for loved ones close to you.

Bring on the Stocking Stuffers (under $10)

Most of these items you have seen before.  They are extremely popular, work well, and are low in cost.[amazon asin=B003R74WXE&template=*lrc ad (left)]

Blocklite Ultra Bright 9V LED Flashlight: One of my readers (James) claimed that these work great. So I bought one. Then I bought another.  All told, I now have 8 of these spread out in drawers, in emergency kits, the car, everywhere.  This is my number one pick for a small, but effective flashlight.

As an alternative, consider the itty, bitty Streamlight Nano Light Keychain LED Flashlight.  This little itty bitty flashlight is extremely small and light weight yet it will throw off a decent amount of super-bright light. At just .36 ounces and 1.47 inches long, it will take up a minimum of space in your pocket or bag.

Paracord Survival Bracelet, Keychain or Lanyard:  Take your pick.  Why a paracord bracelet or other accessory? So you always have some of this useful cord on your person.  I happen to have all three but my favorite is[amazon asin=B0011UIPIW&template=*lrc ad (right)] the Paracord Lanyard that  holds my whistle.

GI P38 & P51 Can Opener Combo Pack:  This is one of the army’s greatest tools. Can be used for dozens of jobs. Makes a great can opener, cutting edge, groove cleaner, screw drive, clean finger nails, open seams and many, many more practical uses.

Windstorm Safety Whistle:  When being heard is a matter of safety or even life and death. you want a whistle that is no only loud but that can be heard for a long distance.  This particular whistle is not the cheapest on our there but I have proven to myself that this particular whistle can be heard a long distance away and above howling wind and other competing sounds.  (It pairs nicely with the Paracord Lanyard.)

Survivor Outdoor Fixed Blade Knife with Fire Starter:  This knife measures 7 inch long overall, has a full-tang stainless steel blade, is equipped with thick green cord-wrap handle, and has a nylon sheath plus a magnesium-alloy fire starter.  How does it work?  This is not a Kershaw, Gerber or other high quality blade.  On the other hand, the fire starter works great (better than great) and is worth the price entire set.[amazon asin=B007NDKP2U&template=*lrc ad (left)]

Smith’s PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener: I wrote about this is in the article The Easy Way to Sharpen a Knife Without Spending a Lot of Money. It sharpens everything from pocket knives to kitchen blades. Very portable and easy to use.

SE BT20 9-Volt Battery Tester: I do not know anyone that is sorry they purchased or gifted an inexpensive battery tester.  Mine sits in my desk drawer and is used 3 or 4 times a week.

Other Gifts for under $10

Homemade baked goods:  Who can resist the temptation of homemade baked goods?  I know that I can’t. This includes cookies, candies, pies, cakes and even artisan breads.  Nothing beats the love that goes into something[amazon asin=B007MMC7H8&template=*lrc ad (right)] that is made by your own two hands. Candles: Emergency candles are inexpensive yet well received.  These candles from Emergency Essentials are perfect, even when there is no emergency.

Preserved memories: Do you have a digital photo that represents a cherished moment with a special someone?  Consider memorializing the event and the moment by having the photo printed – then frame it yourself.

DIY Laundry Soap or Household Cleaners:  Be sure to include the recipe and perhaps the raw materials so your gift recipient can carry on the DIY tradition.  Did you know that many “converts” to DIY cleaning products began with a gift that someone gave them?

Coffee, tea or hot chocolate:  Select some gourmet coffee, organic tea, or rich hot chocolate and package it up in a mason jar or fancy mug wrapped in cellophane and a bow.  Your gift recipient will think of you every time they take a sip.

Windowsill garden:  Pick up a few small plants or herbs and group them together on a plate that can be wrapped with cellophane at the last minute.  The herbs, especially will be a welcome addition to any kitchen.

Hand warmers:  Reusable hand warmers would make a great gift for folks living in colder parts of the country.

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The Best of Gaye Levy

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