Christmas gift shopping is most likely the most stressful time of the season. How do you find and can you afford that perfect gift for that special person on your list? As your friends and family gets older, the problem is compounded because they have everything they need, consequently the stress level is increased.

Having been a shopper for many years, I have discovered that the gift does not really count, it is the thought and if it brings a smile to the recipient of the gift, it makes it a worthwhile gift. While some shop with the concept that the more you spend on a gift, the more likely that it will be appreciated by the recipient. This is not necessarily the case, a simple, inexpensive gift can be appreciated more than the extravagant gift. As an example, several years ago I gave each of my loved ones a sausage, each sausage varied in size and flavor including one that I gave to my son in law that I had taken a bite out of. They do not remember the other gifts that they got that particular Christmas morning, but they all remember the sausages. A few years later, I gave each of my sons and son in laws, a miniature fishing kit, one that they could use throughout the winter until the spring fishing season commenced. Each kit contained a very small custom made fishing rod and a bag full of gold fish. By Christmas morning, the majority of the fish had died, however, they did remember their gift, especially when my grand daughters saw the four bags of water containing dead fish, the shrieks of terror was "Grand Pa killed the fish!", but after we explained to them that they were just asleep, the girls were content.

Between now and Christmas morning, I will keep an eye open for a variety of gifts that you may want to consider as gifts for your loved ones.

Everyone that has a pet, should also remember to buy a little gift for the animal in your life that brings you so much joy. Since we live in Alaska, my suggestion would be a fur parks - unless you have a large dog then it would be cost prohibitive.


For the ladies, if you have a man in your life that enjoys exploring remote lakes to discover new fishing spots, the problem may occur of providing transportation across the lakes. Some prefer to carry canoes, although they are very heavy and cumbersome to portage. Perhaps the "Port A Boat" would make the ideal gift, it comes in various lengths, however, the beauty of it is that it will fold into one single piece that does not exceed four inches in height and weighs less than 30 pounds.


Again, for the ladies, are you tired of nagging your husband or mate to assist you in the housework. Perhaps, if you made the daily chore of mopping or sweeping the floors fun, he would be more inclined to assist you. I am sure that this gift idea would be the ideal gift for those that enjoy playing with remote cars and for those that have aspirations of being a NASCAR driver.


For you men out there, perhaps you should find something entertaining for your spouse or mate. This particular gift may also provide memories that will set the mood for those late evenings while just the two of you are sitting under the Christmas tree. Although, this gift may not be purchased, it can be rented on an hourly or evening rate. Please contact me for details.


Merry Christmas To All Of You.