holidays

Last-minute gifts

Standard

Can you believe that there are only 10 days until Christmas and two weeks left in the year?  I’m ready to say good riddance to 2021 and I’m sure aI’m not alone. 

Have you completed shopping yet? I have not myself and will be baking goodies as a gift supplement. Don’t worry, y’all, I do keep the goodness as holiday goodness and only tweak to make things healthier if ther are strict dietary concerns. 

If you need ideas other than gift cards, here are a few options. 

If you have an amatuer chef on your list, a really good kife is an option. Sam’s Club and Costco have decent sets available.  If a knife is not on your mid, cutting boards, a nice measureing cup and spoon set (skip the plastic), or an apron would be appreciated. 

If a book lover is on your list, you can go with paper or a Kindle for e-book fans. Check the best-seller lists and also take a dive into a beleoved author’s titles and pick up one that the gift recipient would love.  If a coobkook addict is on your list (hint, hint), take a peek at what thie addict has on hand and pick up a companion title or try something a little different. 

Do you have a gamer on your list?  Honestly, a gift card may be vest unless you have requests.  Witha  gift card, they can pick up expansion packs for a game they already love or pick up a game they have their eye on. Gamers can be particular about their equipment, so keep that in mind as you shop. 

I hope these suggestions help.  I’ll add another list of suggestions another time.  

Untl next time, peace! 

 

Last-minute gifts, boozy edition

Standard

Can you believe that there are only four shopping days left until Christmas?  Or just 10 days left in 2015?  Where did the time go?

With time flying by, you may not have picked up gifts for everyone on your shopping list.  If you’re thinking of sharing spirits with the over-21 crowd, keep in mind that Charleston liquor stores will be closed on Christmas day, so you need to swing by your favorite before then.

As for boozy suggestions, try whisky.  Classic cocktails are all the rage and whisky takes the starring role on quite a few.  A Hot Toddy and or spiked nog call for a shot of whiskey (it’s particularly yummy in Coconut Nog) and no stocked bar is complete without a bottle or two.  Here are recommendations close to my heart.

Bulleit Hot Toddy

Bulleit 10 Year-Old has a smooth finish. Try it in a Hot Toddy. This 91.2 proof whiskey retails for around $50

Dickel Rye Smash

George Dickey Rye is an economical choice. It’s 90 proof and is a nice one for drinking straight up. It retails for around $25

Northern Harvest Rye Buck

Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye was named the 2016 World Whisky of the Year by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, becoming the first Canadian Whisky to receive the honor.

The 5 Keys

Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight is Diageo’s latest offering. This contains whiskey some of the oldest stocks, including the last ever produced at Stitzel-Weller. This 91 proof gem retails for around $50.

The Beelzebub

I.W. Harper is back after 20 years! Try this one straight up, in a Hot Toddy, or a cocktail. It’s another economical choice at a suggested retail of just $35.

Remember, drink responsibly.  Don’t drink and drive – have a designated driver.  Take the keys if someone is impaired and give them a place to sleep or call a cab.

Don’t mix alcohol and medication.

Make it an occasional indulgence if you’re working towards a specific fitness goal.  Yes, alcohol is carb-free, but it’s also full of empty calories.