This post was inspired by Oprah, although I do apologize that no one reading this will receive any of these gifts, at least not from me. However, in case anyone is still searching for Christmas ideas, here are some items that I am in love with, many that have multiple uses. I apologize if this seems silly or self-indulgent, but I thought it would be fun. I would love to hear what other people consider to be their top items!
1. Portable Corningware (casserole dish with plastic cover, carrying case)- Love not worrying about food spilling in the car on our way to gatherings. It also comes with a heating/cooling insert, which I am embarrassed to admit doubles as an ice/heat pack for my neck sometimes...don't worry, it doesn't come in direct contact with me or the food. :)
2. Crate and Barrel Miranda Trifle Dish - Works as a centerpiece for our island, but we also use it as a "trash bowl" inspired by Rachael Ray with a clear vegetable bag.
3. L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag with zipper top - I love this bag for work. I can stuff my lunch bag, purse, papers, calendar, etc. in it, and I don't have to carry a luggage-sized purse. Kevin gave it to me as a gift for my birthday right before our wedding, and it was so special because it had my new initials (DLR) on it.
4. Pure Beech Jersey Knit and Sateen sheets - They are so soft, and the colors they come in are great. We have sets for our bed and our guest bed, and they wear well.
5. Pampered Chef bamboo cooking utensils - They are dishwasher safe, and work with our nonstick and hard-anodized pieces. We've had them since our wedding, and we hardly use anything else!
6. Dyson Ball Animal Vacuum - I am distressed/intrigued every time I vacuum because I see how much pet hair is shed for a supposedly moderate-shed dog. It really picks up the hair.
7. Tupperware Stuffables, Crystal Wave, and Modular Mates - Kevin and I both take our lunches everyday, so we love the Stuffables for odd sized leftovers and Crystal Wave for soups and messy leftovers. The modular mates really helped us organize our pantry. Remember
this?
8. Mary Kay tinted moisturizer with SPF 20 - I wear it underneath my normal foundation during the week, and it saves time because it moisturizes and allows my foundation to cover better.
9. Small portable air compressor - SERIOUSLY! I had a leaky tire for about a month (yes, Dad, I know I should have gotten it taken care of sooner), and this was so great to have because whenever my low tire pressure light came on in my car, I could fill it up at home. Of course, Kevin had to teach me initially how to use it and use a tire pressure gage, but I have done it on my own since then. I do find it ironic that this was a gift to Kevin from my parents last year, and I have used it many more times than he has. :)
10. Gap Long and Lean Jeans - Enough said! :)
11. Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University course - We finished it at our church over a year ago, and we still follow all of his guidelines, even the envelope system. It can be a pain at times, but it really works for us.
12. Rum Raisin WoodWick Candle - Holiday in a jar
