Category: Holiday Gift Ideas

BUDGET FRIENDLY GIFTS FOR THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON

Published on by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

This year, many people have expressed the need to shop on a “tight budget,” citing reasons that range from economic challenges to a desire to curb the “over the top” holiday spending indulgences.

I have put together a list of budget-friendly gifts for you to explore. Additionally, I want to highlight my daughter Natasha’s list of gifts that support charitable causes. You can find her list here.

Here are my creative and budget-friendly ideas to ensure your holiday season is truly “merry and bright” without breaking the bank!

Take advantage of the exciting pre-Black Friday sales! Many popular items, including TVs and toys, have seen significant price cuts. During my visit to TARGET, I discovered a variety of WICKED-themed items priced under $15, with an arts and crafts set available for just $5! Additionally, I found several LEGO packs for less than $20 on the Target website and Moana dolls starting at an incredible $6.59!

WICKED GAME
LEGO Star Wars Captain Rex Y-Wing Microfighter Building Toy 75391
LEGO STAR WARS PACK
MOANA DOLL

NO BANNED BOOKS HERE >> FAMILIUS BOOKS ARE DIVERSE and INCLUSIVE!

Books from Familius Publishing cultivate connection and enhance cultural awareness through captivating stories. This forward-thinking publishing company boldly addresses contemporary issues, including diversity and inclusion. As a proud ambassador* for Familius, I truly admire their commitment to delivering high-quality products that can be cherished and passed down through generations. Excitingly, this week they are offering a special discount! Be sure to place your orders by December 5th for timely Christmas or Chanukah delivery.

Below you will see many of my favorite titles! From the 100 First Words series ALLEGRO, SHE SPOKE, the 12 Little Elves (Nebraska, Alaska, Texas, etc.), the Puzzle Trains (Christmas and Alphabet versions), and BFF or NRF for tweens and teens! To make the Familius bookstore even more budget-friendly you are invited to use their code: READTOGETHER30. This will get you an additional 30% off from Nov. 1st – Dec. 15th (2024). * I do not receive any financial compensation as an ambassador for Familius.

What about the Grownups – Especially those who love to travel?

So many ideas and so little time! Some of my most recent faves for gifts happen to be “essentials” for travel, too. And they are all $25 on Amazon and local stores.

This is a cute sling purse that is perfect for travel. It comes in a variety of colors and designs. (Confession- I bought one for myself and two for gifts!) Available on Amazon for less than $25

Expandable travel bag. I always travel with a spare bag in my suitcase—the kind that folds up and can be used to bring home souvenirs. These bags appear to be very sturdy and versatile and come in a variety of colors. The Black Friday pricing was under $20! A bargain, if you ask me!

A Multi-Charging Cable for the Win! Finally one cable charges most of devices – a great find – especially for travelers! Priced under $15 and Available on Amazon

EXPERIENCES for FRIENDS and FAMILY

SCAVENGER HUNTS – Discover the hidden gems of your local town or city (or a place you have traveled) with an exciting scavenger hunt. URBAN QUEST ADVENTURE provides a fantastic way to spend an afternoon or evening, whether as a couple or in a group. We had a blast in Paso Robles, California, where after three hours of exploration, we uncovered the solution to our final clue and celebrated in style at some of Paso Robles’ amazing bakeries and ice cream shops!

ESCAPE ROOMS – The escape rooms are similar to the scavenger hunt – just in an enclosed space versus traveling throughout a city. The ESCAPE ROOM is not for people who are nervous in tight spots. Be sure to read reviews before signing up – as not all ESCAPE ROOMS are equal in what they offer.

MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTIONS– from books, wine, and more – there are so many ingenious subscription services. Buy a month or a year! CRATE JOY offers a variety that should please most. They are offering a Black Friday discount – so now is a good time to cyber-shop!

SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED

If a cause or organization resonates with you – please try to show them your support.

A New Way to Shop – Purchasing Unclaimed Mail, Mystery Boxes, and More! Featuring an Interview with Jodi Lytle, The Pallet Princess!

Published on by LouiseSattler4 Comments

People have an undeniable fascination with a good shopping mystery! From storage units that have been abandoned and left unpaid long enough to go up for auction, to return items from major retailers like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy, sold for mere pennies on the dollar; the thrill of discovery is irresistible. There’s also unclaimed mail, encompassing undeliverable packages that have roamed the globe searching for their rightful owners. When no one claims these lost items, they too are auctioned off in pallets to eager buyers looking to uncover or resell these hidden “treasures.”

I must confess, I’ve become quite captivated by this fascinating world. I’ve indulged in an astonishing number of “Storage Unit Unveiled” episodes that could entertain me for years! Additionally, I’ve made unique purchases from Unclaimed Baggage, including electronics and various items left behind on airplanes. In fact, shopping for unclaimed baggage offers an excellent opportunity to acquire a computer, tablet, or phone at an unbeatable price. And for under $50 you can find a warehouse full of gems! (Check out these items below from Unclaimed Baggage today!)

This brings me to my latest obsession: Jodi Lytle’s (@PallettPrincessO) Instagram and TikTok pages. She shares her unique process of purchasing large pallets of unclaimed mail and surplus inventory from various stores via her authentically modest videos. With an engaging flair, she unboxes these intriguing finds on her Instagram and TikTok accounts, inviting her audience to join her in the excitement of discovering whether the items are hidden “treasures” or mere “junk.”

Jodi exudes a lively energy that captivates everyone around her. She’s laugh-out-loud funny, especially when she attempts to guess the contents of the mystery package based on its wrapping or the color of the paper! Frequently, she’ll exclaim with playful disdain, “I bet it’s car parts.” Alongside this, there’s an amusing streak of wishful thinking—”I hope it’s something nice.” Viewer comments vary widely, from supportive suggestions to outright rudeness. It often pains me to see her defend her reasoning for purchasing pallets—often at a thousand dollars or more—only to face criticism for her choices.

What Jodi is providing is FREE ENTERTAINMENT during a time when a diversion from the ills of the world is very much welcome!

Of all the intrigue that these various websites and content creators provide, the one that has truly offered me the most “payback” is Jodi’s Mystery Jewelry Boxes. I recently purchased my first box, which promised to include 20 individually wrapped new jewelry pieces.

This box exceeded my expectations. Jodi sent 30 pieces, all with their price tags still attached. My curious self tallied up the tags from Banana Republic, Saks, Nordstrom, Stein Mart, and more. The total value came to an impressive $690! When discussing ROI (return on investment), converting a $60 expense into $700 is undeniably fantastic!

The mystery box created an enjoyable addition to our family reunion gathering. It was such a success that I decided to purchase a second, then a third, and finally a fourth—after all, the holiday season will be upon us before we know it! Below is just a small sample of what has been included!

I asked Jodi to respond to a few questions. After all, inquiring entrepreneurial minds want to know more about this concept. She is a boldly honest mid-westerner – and gosh that was refreshing!

JODI’s INTERVIEW

Louise: Hi Jodi! I am a huge fan of yours and the content you create. What was the catalyst for you turning your affection towards pallets into a lively and highly entertaining online series (TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook?)

Louise: For my audience, how do you obtain “the goods”?

Jodi: I buy from some wholesalers I trust.  The links are in my link tree.  Pallet world is very unmonitored and that leads to a lot of scammers.  I always say “If you can’t touch it don’t buy it.”  You can find wholesalers on face book and monitor their page for a while to ensure that they are good real people. 

Louise: What if someone wanted to start getting their own pallets of unclaimed- where would they go?  

Jodi: There are only two places that I know of that sell unclaimed mail currently.  One is GRP in Dorr Michigan (Mitch and his wife Jess are great.)  and the other is Pallet Liquidation Depot in Oshkosk Wisconsin (Tell Mike Jodi sent you.) 

Louise: You definitely sell a ton of the mystery boxes full of jewelry! It is a brilliant idea. Any other types of mystery box ideas percolating?

Jodi: If we can find a good supplier we would be open to different mystery boxes.  We have been searching but have not found any product that we feel is quality.  Stay tuned because who knows what is next! 

Louise: What is the most common item found in these unclaimed boxes and envelopes?

Jodi: This question made me laugh……..CAR PARTS! But it honestly depends on the pallet.  

Louise: If you resell them – where do you usually do that – Etsy? Ebay? Another site? Combination of more than one site?

We do not really sell what we open.  When we used to buy big pallets we would sell locally to friends informally.  We donate and share about 90% if not more.  We keep about 1% of items that we open. 

Louise: I know that you have opened up highly personalized items and have enlisted the help of the social media audience to find the rightful owner. Tell me what is it like when you make a “match” between owner and item?

Jodi: It is rewarding.  When an individual gets back an item that is special to them it makes me so happy.  

Louise: Is there anything else you wish to share with readers?

Jodi: Please follow along and go on daily adventures with us! 

Louise: Where can they find you online?

Jodi:

LINKTREE

Tiktok Palletprincess0

Instagram Palletprincess0

Facebook Jodi Lytle

Thank you for reading!

Themed Gift Ideas for Kids for the 2022 Holiday Season!

Published on by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

It is that time of year when parents and grandparents are looking for gifts for their cherubs that will remain of interest long after the last holiday cookie is eaten. For me, those gifts are ones from the heart and usually have a “theme”. This year I would like to propose giving the gift of “exploration” to a child. 

Imagine your child learning about the world beyond their front doors. Where they can learn about different states, countries, or even space! Package books, a globe, a telescope, maps, arts and crafts activities, and even games for a multidimensional gift that will bring enjoyment (and sneak in learning) for years to come!

Maybe take these ideas for a “spin”…

Travel to the stars and beyond!

Have you ever spent more than a few seconds looking at the stars? Wondering what happens on other planets? In other solar systems? Here are some ideas for kids to learn more about the world beyond Earth.

A primer book about space for preschool and early readers. Great illustrations to help stimulate learning! Familius Publishing
Montessori System and Planets puzzle/ TouchwoodDesign via Etsy

A little “planetary” humor! This t-shirt can be a conversation piece and a party favorite! via Quality Appearance on Etsy

Pack Your Bags!

Traveling can be a challenge for children and their parents. After all, who loves the chorus of “Are we there yet?”. Not me! So, here is an idea to keep kids busy and parents sane. Wrap up small ‘gifts” to be dolled out during the trip on the half – hour of hour mark. Intersperse what kind of activity is presented. Coloring books, small electronic games, clever puzzles like a Rubric cube, card games, magic activities, and games that are a spin-off of family favorites such as “license plates” – all work! Here are some of my favorites –

CAR GAMES that include AUTO BINGO!
Engines Animated is an interactive book for young readers. This book has “engagement” value and is worth packing! by Familius/ Available on Amazon

DOODLE ART!
Little navigators will love this atlas. Chocked full of maps, fun games, and activities. National Geographic is top-notch with its photography and informative, but interesting texts. Amazon

Special Places to Visit!

It is no secret that I love, love, love to travel! That is why when I found out about the Familius’ travel series for young readers that teaches interesting facts about states and fundamental skills (such as counting or the ABCs) – I am more than willing to share that information with all of you. (Yes, the publisher sent me copies of the books – all that I will give away!) Each book is different. There is no formula that is repopulated for each version. Instead, the author highlights key places such as ZION National Park for the Utah edition. This is a great gift for kids who are traveling to these states to “prep” before they land. Note that colors are matched with the “state theme”.

This year, Familus Publishing, gifted me with books that had Christmas themes, as well. These are not your ho-hum little kid’s books. Like many titles from Familius, these are written on two levels – with grownups AND kids in mind!

Case in point … The 12 Little Elves series is a hoot! I laughed for quite some time when I saw the Little Elves negotiating freeway traffic inside the California edition. (If you have ever sat in traffic on “the 405” you would be hysterical laughing, too!) For their full state collection click here. I also asked our friends at Familius to consider other holidays with slightly different characters, too!

Under the Sea!

Sneak in learning through technology

Here are some ideas to keep your teens and tweens happy, including while driving. We all know that this age group is glued to their phones – so why not give them constructive tech activities? Consider having your ‘co-riders’ track distances between points along the route, thus sneaking in some math and reading skills. Next, have them snap photos and organize them into folders with the goal of creating a memory album or photo book at the end of your journey (executive functioning skills are the bonus here!). And, to help with these endeavors try CANVA (education tab) and photo companies such as Shutterfly or Snapfish.

Now Your Ideas?

Do you have a great gift idea that maybe has educational and is large on the “fun value”, too?

Special Note: I do not receive payment for any promotions you see on this page. The most I am afforded are a few free games or books from publishers for review. I only add these books, games, etc. if the products are deemed of fun and educational value. If you see them here – they passed “my test”! Amazon is where yu will find the majority of what you see here. Familius Publishing is a company that I have an ambassador relationship with – but in all honesty – their products are TOP NOTCH!!

Giggling While Learning: Holiday Gift Ideas!

Published on by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! This year my holiday gift guide is filled with family friendly items that will keep all ages entertained and learning for hours and hours. (Remember – never stop learning!) Some of the ideas are new games or books from first time authors, while others are “staples” in the toy bins and play closets of millions of households.

New games that teach and entertain!

Brave the winter elements and play an older game with a newer twist – THE GROUND IS LAVA! This game is great for reinforcing the “art” of turn taking and gross motor skills. Plus, it has the extra benefit of mentally helping people by encouraging them to become ACTIVE.

The publisher summarized this dynamic game as follows:

Many people know the impromptu game of shouting out “LAVA” and everyone jumping up into nearby objects to get their feet off the ground. Endless Games created a format where players continue to imagine the floor is molten hot lava, but added play patterns using a spinner for color call-outs and having players jump along foam game pieces in order to reach safety. Challenge cards that enforce activities that can make it difficult not to fall into the lava come into play when landing on certain tiles.

Taking the game outside adds another format to play. “Tiles can be placed farther apart. Patio furniture and natural objects, like rocks and trees, can provide touch points or obstacles,” Turtle explained. “It’s very interesting to see the ways that kids are using their imaginations and being active with the game play.”

Endless Games also offers these fun games are available on AMAZON. Click the photo or the description below for the Amazon link to learn more.

CAMERA ROLL – a game that aligns with today’s teens and adults who list Instagram as their favorite “hobby”. Seriously, this game is a great gift for the teen in your life. Social skills and great conversations can result with this game.

JEOPARDY CARD GAME (regular and junior editions)- The popular game made famous by the late Alek Trebek. Great as a stocking stuffer and a travel game. Making my list two years in a row.

WHEEL of FORTUNE (regular and junior editions)– Perfect for teaching predictive spelling and word usage. This game is fun and teaches the basics of spelling without your kids even knowing!

HORROR TRIVIA (I and II – for those who love to scream their answers!) I have this on the list – just because…

PASSWORD- This is an older game revised. The concept of guessing words within a certain time limit based on verbal clues continues to bring a whole lot of the fun factor. If you to like to compete – this game is for you! Another language based game that helps kids to describe – great for growing vocabulary knowledge and literacy.

DROPSY– OOPS I did it again may be the theme of this game? Seriously, this is a funny game where balance is everything! Adults will like it, too.

New from Board Game Geek – FREQUENT FLYER!

A game for families who love to travel! Covid has limited our ability to travel, but, not our wanderlust! So, here is a way to satiate your cravings for exploring new places from the comfort of your home. (Better yet, learn about each place, make a list, and go travel there in 2022!)

BOOKS! BOOKS! BOOKS!

A book is a gift that can help a child learn about the world beyond their homes, ignite a sense of exploration, or teach skills – such as how to cope during tough times. The children’s books by Familius Publishing are some of my favorites! This year they have a very solid collection of Christmas-themed books. Check out these very creative and beautifully illustrated selections.

SANTA.com – OMG this book is so cute! What made me a big fan was not only this modern version of a classic Christmas story but the gorgeous illustrations that POP from the book’s pages! A perfect book for both boys and girls who are imaginative and love to read and be listen to stories. (Suggested age range: 3 and up)

The Christmas Train is the perfect gift for a toddler or preschooler. The story AND the book both unfold in front of your eyes! Bright and cheery illustrations with a holiday-themed short story. (Don’t tell the neighbors – but I bought their little ones this book and a similar themed book as a set.)



LITTLE ELVES VISIT CALIFORNIA! How many holiday books teach geography and state facts? This one does (and Familius offers other states such as Missouri and Colorado! (Age range: Preschool and up)

FAMILIAR GAMES REVISITED WITH A PURPOSE or JUST FOR FUN!

Family Favorites also include these games (with a little info about which skills they develop that may help your child’s development/academics).

GAMESKILL DEVELOPMENT
CANDY LAND
SORRY
TRIVIA PURSUIT for KIDS (or adult version)		Turn-taking/ Learning colors, basic counting, basic reading skills, and Trivia Pursuit expands beyond the basic fundamentals of learning.
MONOPOLY
YAHTZEE
CONNECT 4
CLUE
MEMORY
GUESS WHO		Verbal Comprehension/ Verbal Reasoning Skills / Numerical Reasoning/ Prediction Skills/ MEMORY

SCATTERGORIESClassification and categorization of items/ words

Just in case you were wondering what I did with all these review copies I receive…

Games and books reviewed here were received from the publisher. I have donated them to charity so that disadvantaged youth can enjoy their holiday season.
Whatever you celebrate may this holiday season be filled with positivity and hope for a better 2022.

A Random List of Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas

Published on by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

So, you waited until the last minute to shop for the holidays? Don’t worry- I have ideas for the last minute shopper who is looking for a unique gifts

Think Positive! DIY!

Short on time and cash? Here are some gifts that are from the heart and shouldn’t break your wallet.

  1. Make a photo book chronicling the positive aspects of 2020. Send your photos to a one -day/ hour service (such as Walgreens or CVS) and then place the prints in to an inexpensive photo album or create one yourself from materials you can find at home. For bonus fun – write a poem to add to your gift.
  2. Go festive and make your own piñata! Be sure to fill with favorites – like candy and dollar store toys! Here is an easy “recipe” from Berries. com
  3. Sew from scraps of cloth and fill with beans – your very own bean bags. Use to play games or teach another person how to juggle!
  4. Bake cookies, decorate and place in creative containers.

Not in the creative mood – well then give the gift of TRAVEL!

Eventually, we will be able to satiate our wanderlust! Travel will be back on the calendar and you can make your family and friends smile with travel themed gifts. ( I already talked with my travel agent guru from The Travel Store, Linda Kahn- Ferrell for our next adventure!)

Consider ITALY!! We are! I can’t wait to reunite with the awesome Ana from Selected Tours Italy! I met Ana more than a year ago at the LA Travel and Adventure Show. We stayed in touch and she smartly has pivoted her business to helping travelers who are “stuck at home” enjoy the spirit of travel – virtually! Check out their awesome virtual tours for holiday gifting here. And, surprise your loved one by booking as a gift a customized tour of Italy for a post-Covid future trip!

Zion

Not ready to fly across the ocean? Well here is another travel themed idea. How fun to give the gift of a trip to a National Park! Rent an easy to drive RV and surprise your family with a trip to go visit Yosemite, the Grand Canyon or even Niagra Falls! These parks have been open (more or less) throughout the pandemic and help press our inner “reset” button.

Cruise America is known for great RV rentals. And, to learn about US National Parks go here: https://www.nps.gov/index.htm

Read about my spin on RV’ing

Last but certainly not least – Give the Gift of Paying It Forward!

Let’s face it – you get to a certain age when you have collected more than enough “STUFF”. You don’t need anymore “stuff” because you have no room in drawers, closets or shelves.

That is when you give to others.

Consider giving to your local shelter, domestic violence center or a GoFundMe that helps individuals and families in need across the globe. Donate in honor of others. As I am sure, others you know also don’t need more stuff!

RUFF! RUFF! MEOW! MEOW!

Animals need love, too! While there has been a surge of animal adoptions since the Covid 19 pandemic- there continues to be a huge need for help at our local shelters and organizations that care for animals in fragile situations. This is where you can help by sponsoring an animal, donating or adoption.

Try PetFinder.com to find your local organizations in need and pets looking for homes. And remember, before you shop – look to adopt! There are many “pure breed” animals looking for their fur-ever families.

This past holiday season I sponsored five dogs in shelters. Each dog was sponsored in the name of a family member or friend. The sponsor fee helped pay for food and care for the dogs. I heard a lot of “aws” and “how cute” when the envelopes with photos of these pups were opened. I opted to sponsor via RUFFStartRescue.org and they sent a lovely thank you.

Just look at these faces (and by the way – they all have been adopted since we started to sponsor them – except for Minnetonka (with the red collar on the left). How sweet is this little pup! Learn more here

And, as the calendar turns to 2021 – know that I have appreciated each of those who have read this blog. Happy Holidays!

Holiday Gift Ideas: Part 2 – Support an Artist

Published on by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Life during COVID 19 is hard. It is more than a minor challenge for parents, now turned teachers. It is a crisis for restaurant, hospitality and beauty shop owners and their employees. And, for those who are creative talents – such as performing and visual artists – COVID 19 has made their livelihoods null and void. The result – many artists have opted to pivot.

So, my mission for this blog is to introduce you to some artists who use their creativity to make our homes and offices beautiful and are worth checking out this holiday season. Plus, I added two textile creators that recently caught my eye (and credit card).

This is the second of my holiday gift recommendations and I hope you enjoy it! Read the first one here.

I was invited to meet Steffi Pecarich when her family members asked Hubby and I to attend her 2019 art opening. I love art and always want to support my friends projects of their kids, but I was not prepared on how much I would enjoy the artistic talent of this young lady! Steffi is featured on ETSY and very much an artist you should take time to learn more about and support by simply pressing > “click here to meet Steffi” .

My take… Her art seems simplistic until you really look closely. And please do. How this talent melds her colors together and embeds symbols in each of her paintings is quite intriguing. I think this one might be my favorite (click).

Plus, ArtFactory69 (Steffi’s company’s name) is priced for the average person’s budget with many pieces under $40. Here is an interview of Steffi from a YouTube’s show: On The Trend with Elliott Desai

Follow Steffi on ETSY and INSTAGRAM

My repertoire of artistic talent can be summed up with a few puffy paint shirts and stick figure drawings. Not so with my niece, Elissa Masin Blumstein. She always was a master with the art brush. Now, with her husband, Ryan Blumstein, they have expanded from their successful special event signage and decor company – SURFACE GROOVES with the fun and functional – SURFACE GOODS. This new venture came at the right time! Their customer base is the consumer who now find themselves staying at home in lieu of spending their annual vacation bucks. SURFACE GOODS brings to home and hearth beautiful and customizable decor. So much to love (and, that truly is my “unbiased” opinion!). PLUS… they have created CHANUKAH decorations that aren’t your store bought cookie cutter offerings. I am sooo tired of the same old Chanukah decorations that are usually ugly and BORING (or expensive). I was thrilled to see their variety of signage including one that has a very clever play on words – HAPPY CHALLAH DAY! (See below)

See SURFACE GROOVES on INSTAGRAM

See SURFACE GOODS on INSTAGRAM

MOUNTAIN TEMPO ONESIES: ETSY HOW CLICK HERE

CASSY’S MASKS : ETSY SHOP CLICK HERE

Holiday Gift Recommendations: Games so fun your kids won’t know they are learning! #Giveaway

Published on by LouiseSattler5 Comments

Each year I write a post with my list of ideas for holiday gifting. I try to skew to gifts that give back to charity or are educational. I also like to list gifts that are provide “random fun”. This year I am writing three blogs – three lists full of holiday gift ideas. The first one is dedicated to educational toys and games. AND… there is a GIVEAWAY. Simply comment below to be entered to win the Griddly Games 5 STONES game by midnight Pacific Time December 13, 2020. See rules below.

Two things you need to know…

First, if I recommend a product or charity I do so without any payment from the company or organization. A few companies sent samples and they will be donated to families who are struggling due to Covid 19 or teachers.

Secondly, I welcome your suggestions. Simply add your holiday gift ideas in the comment section below.

From Griddly Games comes a very unique ensemble of ” just add…” products and others that use word and numerical reasoning. I must admit, as an educator, they had me at their descriptions of being products focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). All of these kits are user friendly (younger children will require supervision, as can be expected).

CALLING ALL TEACHERS AND HOME EDUCATORS – CHECK OUT VERY FUN STEAM ACTIVITY KITS FOR THE HOLIDAYS FROM GRIDDLY GAMES.

just add EGG.(ages 5 and up, parent/ teach guidance required) – Comprised of more than 10 interactive activities with “egg-speriments” included in this very fun egg shaped box. This game is filled with everything from molding clay, crayons, glue and even corn syrup! Lots of hours of fun are to be expected and all need is a child, their imagination, a parent or teacher to supervise and EGGS!

Like science AND art? Then check out just add BAKING SODA! You can make at least 20 different projects – including your very own bath bombs, volcano or holiday ornaments with this very visually fun and interactive kit! I like that this kit uses a lot of visual motor perceptual skills and helps to build fine motor skills.

Be sure to check out ALL the just ask kits here. Great prices! Find also on Amazon!

WISE ALEC™️ EARNED an A++

WISE ALEC ™️

Children’s Products) If you enjoy trivia games – then you will LOVE Wise Alec(TM). Meant for family night or classroom game time – WISE ALEC incorporates mind games such as brain teasers and tongue twisters with physical activity. Over 1000 questions are included in the game box. The game is geared reinforce elementary school curricula covering the subjects of History, Science and Spelling!

Need easy questions for your first grader – no problem. Want to challenge your fifth grader? With Wise Alec you can do that, too! And when you pick a STUDY BREAK card get ready to MOVE (and earn points for doing so!) Excellent game and great for those who need support with literacy skills, too! Supper fun and creative. I give Wise Alec a solid A++

SHOW ME THE KWAN!

When I first saw this game in the box I started hooting and hollering! A WORD game!! Plus it was very reminiscent of Scrabble® and Boggle®. SHOW ME THE KWAN also had many components of categorizing games such as Scattergories®. This game is Intended to be played with a large group (you can have up to ten players). I envision this game as great for classroom use, “Covid 19” education pod groups (home education) and parties with tweens and teens.

“KWAN” takes a bit of a learning curve to get the rules down – but once you do – watch out! This is a fast paced game for letter/wordsmiths! Small enough to bring along to family and friend gatherings.

PUZZLES! PUZZLES PUZZLES!

There are several reasons for parents to buy puzzles this holiday season. How many gifts can teach history, art, geography and much more for a fraction of the price of an electronic gaming system? Plus, kids can learn foundational literacy skills.

First, when you assemble a puzzle you need organizational and visual discrimination skills. Some people like to separate pieces by color, or by shape. Others are very focused on the cover picture and organize their puzzle pieces section by section (frame vs. inside, for example).

Did you know that when you assemble a puzzle you also are training your eyes to see how “parts become a whole”? Puzzles, believe it or not, can help teach children how letters become words and words become a paragraph?!

Check out ENDLESS GAMES !

Endless Games is a company that you can access online or by driving to your nearest Kohl’s. If you are a lover of puzzles AND Broadway you will FREAK at their PLAYBILL Presents puzzle! Hours of fun for under $15!

.

PEACE ON EARTH

This is a beautiful 1000 piece puzzle spotlighting the artistic talent of Malcom Watson. Your whole family can linger over the dining room table as you complete this puzzle that measures almost 20″ by 26″ when finished.

Master Pieces – beautiful quality puzzles.

I received this CATOLOGY puzzle. While not a huge fan of cats (more of a dog lover) – this puzzle was simply lovely and the poster inside was a nice bonus feature!

More Favorite Puzzles with Educational Value

White Mountain Puzzles. Their Nostalgic / Vintage Collection are my favorites. These puzzles are great for multi-generational play. Grandparents and parents can educate children and young adults about life before the new Millennium! The pieces are thick and that is good for young and old fingers, alike. White Mountain Puzzles are POPULAR – so be sure to check back if ones on your wish list are out of stock. Website and Amazon.

Uncommon Goods offers novelty puzzles with political and historical themes. This VOTES FOR WOMEN is a circular pattern.

GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY!

GIVEAWAY- the Griddly Games new edition: 5 STONES! Open to all United States residents who are 18 years of age or older. Must comment on this post on or before Sunday, December 13, 2020, 11:59pm Pacific time. No employees or family member associated with Griddly Games nor LouiseSattler.com may enter. One winner. Will be announced here on the blog AND via email. No substitutions.

Coming up in the next blog: Giving with a Purpose!

My 2019 Holiday Gift List for Grown-Ups

Published on by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Every year I try to write a short list of recommended gift ideas for the holiday season. This year, I am including an eclectic list of suggestions – some that you will find on my Amazon list of holiday ideas and others that are “non- traditional”. I hope they pique your interest! Enjoy!

🎄TECHNOLOGY GIFTS

tablift

I wrote this past week about tablift®. Reminder: I am offering a GIVEAWAY CONTEST associated with this product until Dec. 2, 2019. . Simply go here to learn more about this accessory for your tablets and how to enter the giveaway. A super gift idea for most ages.

Kindle Fire


This is the PERFECT gift for any one who loves to read, take photos, play electronic games (like Solitaire, Scrabble, etc.) and watch prime videos! I use this every single time I fly! Price point is a smooth $29.99 on Amazon as a limited special here.

BLINK XT2 and ECHO DOT

I love our BLINK and if you are into home devices that are “smart” and convenient check out the BLINK XT2 and ECHO DOT combo pack. On sale CYBER MONDAY on AMAZON. Also, available as individual purchases.

Non-Traditional Gift Ideas

Here is my list of non-traditional gift ideas for this year. If you have any others to add – please do so in the comment section below.

1- HelpaTeacher.com and DonorsChoose.com. Two ways to help out teachers in need because educators never seem to have enough resources to help teach our children.

2. Adopt a Senior – An organization to help senior centers or individuals who do not have much family support. If this organization does not resonate with you, please consider donating to your local senior facility. One way is to help is to provide games for their group activities. Balls, giant BINGO games, decks of cards with large print and activity boards are all used in facilities that help our seniors, especially those with cognitive / memory issues. Here are some ideas if you wish to explore.

3. Donate to the arts. Every year there are local theaters, dance companies, museums, and more that are seeking funds in order to provide quality entertainment and activities for our communities. They need our help. Please consider donating locally or globally to keep the arts alive.

4. SHOP LOCAL. Buy goods or gift certificates to local restaurants, book stores, even service shops like cleaners, nail salons, grocery stores and hair stylists! Support our communities as well as your “friends” online.

5. #NoHungryKid.org – NO child should have a day where they feel hunger. Please support this organization (and if you give on #GivingTuesday contributions will be matched!)

Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

TABLIFT- Great holiday gift idea (Plus, a #Giveaway)

Published on by LouiseSattler1 Comment

You will LOVE tablift® by nbryte. You will love to give it as a gift. You will love to ask Santa for one for yourself. You will love the functionality. You will LOVE the price! AND… YOU WILL LOVE THAT I AM OFFERING A GIVEAWAY!

What is tablift®? Here is where photos can be worth a zillion words to describe this handsfree device that helps you to view with ease content on a tablet or cell phone.

tablift has strong but lightweight construction making it perfect for travel or when lounging.

Flexible construction allows you to have the tablift of different heights.
The tablift can easily fit in to a briefcase or luggage

Use the tablift while in bed. Perfect for individuals who are bedridden due to illness or need a way to prop their device while lounging!

Use the tablet while reading or watching movies in bed.

Save yourself from getting “tech neck” by bending too much to read your device. Use the tablift to be better with ergonomics and save yourself from future pain!

Details…

1- The tablift is compatible with the Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Amazon Kindle, Asus, Microsoft Surface 2, 3 and other tablets. (Frankly, I think my iPhone 8 plus would also fit!)

2- Height of the tablift can be easily changed by stretching the “legs”.

3- User friendly. No complicated directions – just pop it up and fasten your device. Really – 3 steps, if you include removing it from the box!

4. Perfect for parents with young children, people with physical challenges, those who wish to have better ergonomics and travelers.

5. Website is: Tablift.com

6. Easy budget item- $39.95 Order via AMAZON here

GIVEAWAY TIME!

I have ONE tablift to giveaway to one lucky person. To enter to win – simply do the following:

STEP 1: Follow tablift on Facebook here: www.Facebook.com/tablift

STEP 2. Comment about tablift on my Facebook post that you will find pinned here: www. Facebook.com/LouiseSattlerConsulting

STEP 3- READ MY WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT on DECEMBER 3rd. This giveaway ends midnight December 2, 2019. Must be US resident, live in the US and be at least 18 years of age. You also can’t be one of my relatives. Winner chosen via a randomizer.

I was given a free gift of one TABLIFT for my personal use in exchange for this sponsored blog. But all opinions are organic, authentic and groovy.