Holiday Guide - Gift Guide - Parents

They are the people who formed all of your wonderful holiday memories - so the least you can do is get them a present they will enjoy, is useful, and one that makes you look like the best child ever. Why is it that Mom and Dad are the hardest to shop for? For me, maybe it's just overwhelming to get a present for the people who hid, wrapped, and snuck presents under the tree for so many years. Who knows - but don't join me in over-thinking it all - I've done the thinking and the leg work and here are the best gift for your folks this year! 

Check out this killer set of turf coasters - no need to even explain this one - total no brainer any Dad would love to have these to add to his office or man space (but keep them off Mom's coffee table) 

Is your Mom addicted to her iPad? If so - she could use this beautiful new iPad case.. and seal her spot as the coolest Mom in the ebook club. 

Here's a secret: Men love socks. They are an essential part of any businessman's wardrobe. Give your Pops a new stylish pair this year - he'll love them and he'll use them. 

A throw blanket... but not just any run of the mill throw blanket - a throw blanket from an island off the coast of Maine - Swan's Island to be exact. My parents and their friends go their every summer and these blankets are the real deal.  The founders also might be new idols - Boston lawyers turned rural artisans who dedicated their lives to preserving the organic wool business on the island by employing 12 weavers who work on one blanket start to finish. You can also ship your purchase to them anytime for a wash or repair. This can't be beat. If you have the money - your mom will remember how much she loves you every time she curls up for a movie night... and who can put a price-tag on that?

Whiskey tumblers  this is something most Dad's would never buy for themselves - but chances are if they love whiskey they will love these special glasses - and this very cool design. My all time favorite glass blowers, Simon Pearce, also make an awesome Beer Mug that any Dad would be happy to enjoy a pint from! 

I gave my mom one of these last year - the idea behind this jewelry line is that the gold parts spell out a word in morse code - I chose the one that says "Mom" but you can chose anything you like - and any color silk thread as well. Such a sweet and thoughtful present. 

Okay now before you get all "NO not a Puzzle/Board game - those are the worst!" on me... this present is awesome and would be a great Holiday down time activity - think about it.. everyone sitting around on their iphones... and you save the day with your puzzle that is not only a great all inclusive activity but also is a photo of your whole family! This can't be beat. Major family brownie points. Get one - give it as a family present... your whole family will think you're the best. I promise!

You can also find wonderful gift ideas:
here (like custom wine/beer labels with your photos)
here (all things hostess/garden/comfort related)
here (affordable, wonderful art)
and also always check Etsy - they have such great artists and you can always find that extra special thing you can't find anywhere else. 

If you are still having a hard time - go through an old photo album and have one of your family pictures enlarged and printed on nice paper and framed. This is always a winner.