Running out of time but still have presents to buy? Here's a list of 5 Last Minute Gift Ideas for the easiest Christmas shopping ever. Not only do Best Buy, Walmart and Kmart have plenty of inventory left, but Amazon, LL Bean, Land's End and Barnes & Noble also have gift cards that can be purchased or printed off online.
There's only a few days left to Christmas, and there's still a bunch of presents that need to be picked out, purchased and wrapped. Stop running around and make a list, check it twice, then turn the computer on. Some of these items can be purchased online and sent with express mail in time for the holidays. Magazine subscriptions, gift cards and dvd's are super easy, and can either be bought online and printed off, or require a quick trip to the local supermarket or bookstore. These items also make fantastic stocking stuffers.
1. Gift Cards: Always a great choice for the person who has everything. Olive Garden, iTunes, Best Buy, Home Depot, Walmart and even American Express have gift cards in all denominations. Not only do gift cards let you off the hook – there's virtually no effort when it comes to decision making – but they're also quick and easy. Make a list of recipients, go to the local grocery store or pharmacy, and grab a handful to give as gifts. Make sure the store activates the card for you right there in front of you, and remember to get a receipt.
2. Digital Picture Frame: What grandparent – or parent for that matter – wouldn't want a continuous stream of photos of their little angels on the mantle or night stand? This is the best thing that ever came along when choosing a gift for Grandma & Grandpa. Gone are the days of old photo albums. Grandma doesn't have to lift a finger except to click the remote. Digital frames range in size from 5 inches to 15 inches and larger, and sell in all prices. Get them at Amazon, Best Buy or any store that sells electronics.
3. Books: Every gourmet cook in the family could use another 2-3 cookbooks. Check to see what types of food they're into by looking on their bookshelf, and you're sure to pick just the right thing at Barnes & Noble. Best Sellers include: Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Good Eats: The Early Years by Alton Brown, and The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Ree Drummond.
It seems that kids never have enough books. Just be sure to get something they're interested in, and is age-specific. Best selling books include: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days by Jeff Kinney, and the Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7) by J. K. Rowling.
The sports enthusiast in the family would love "The Best Of...." books about golf, football, baseball, etc. Best Sellers include: Open: An Autobiography by Andre Agassi, The Blind Side by Michael Lewis, and The Book of Basketball: The NBA According to The Sports Guy by Bill Simmons.
4. DVD's: CBS News.com recently did a special "Last Minute Gifts" segment in which they talked about all sorts of DVD's for the family. One suggestion was the 70th Anniversary Gone With the Wind boxed set with 13 hours of extras included for Mom. Another great DVD collection is the 13 DVD Paul Newman Tribute set, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Long Hot Summer, and The Hustler. The Shield: 7 Seasons with 60 hours of bonus features, and the complete Ally McBeal series. Kids love new movies, and there's plenty to pick from in all genres and age groups.
Make sure to watch the video Still Time for Last Minute Christmas Gifts by CBS News Online for more great ideas.
5. Magazine Subscriptions: The ultimate last minute gift! Magazines can be purchased online, and a gift certificate printed off or emailed to your favorite magazine addict. Some popular publications are: Time, People, Bon Appetit, National Geographic and Travel + Leisure. When in doubt, a gift certificate to Amazon.com or their favorite bookstore will bring lots of smiles.
Related Christmas Articles
- Free Christmas Desktop Wallpapers
- Hottest Christmas Toys for 2009: Zhu Zhu Pets and Nintendo DSi
- Free Christmas Music on Amazon.com and Internet Radio Stations
- Christmas Cocktail Recipes and Jello Shots Ignite Holiday Parties
- Homemade Eggnog Recipes Fuel the Christmas Spirit
Written by Donna Diegel
HULIQ.com
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
