Ask KQ Claus

Saw this and I think it could be helpful for this thread and seems like it would be up KQ’s alley.

Attachment 351916

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Originally Posted by KQ

Wow. Okay let me see if I can make some in roads:

1) Maine BIL w/ Landrover: What about some Maine/New England backroads travel books? Amazon lists quite a few (no need to buy here but you can get an idea and read reviews). Also along those lines are driving gloves and/or driving shoes. Not sure what Landrovers come with standard re: safety equipment but you could consider something like one of the kits in this review to go with a travel book (I like the idea of having a seat belt cutter on hand in any car).

Ditching the car accessory idea what about something for a nice cookout or boil? Does he have all he needs? Could he use with new accessories?


2) Might need some more info on the younger sister like age and possible other interests. Re: cookbooks - does she collect them or is she actually looking for ground breaking recipes? Is there a particular type of food/region she is interested in exploring (what doesn't she have any of)? Of course I love Cooks and their magazing is great esp. since it has no ads. A gift subscription is always lovely. You can also go the online route if that is more her style. Cooks also sells compulation cookbooks of which I have several that I use all the time.

Maybe she'd like to go a totally different cooking direction and get the kids involved. Last year I gave my neighbors who have two young daughters a entire pizza set up from King Arthur flour. I give them gifts every year and the pizza set up elicited the most excitement I've ever seen. They actually told me it was the best present ever. LOL!

It included King Arthur Pizza flour, dough flavoring and seasonings a pan, a cutter, some nice olive oil and a pizza book I got from Williams Sonoma. You could add a wooden peel if you'd like - I use mine a lot.

3). Are you looking for a gift just for her or something she and her husband can share? Does she need pampering? Perhaps a nice Origins gift set and a book or two to get lost in while taking a relaxing bath? The Gloomaway (Grapefruit) Body Souffle, body buffer and body wash/bubble bath are wonderful (name is horrible but it's based on the idea that grapefruit is supposed to be uplifting. If she's a little more into spicy warm scents go with the Ginger which is just as wonderful) What kind of books does she like to read? What do they do on their hobby farm? Animals? Crops? Maybe she's looking to produce something she can sell from a farm stand like dried lavender products or other herbs. Perhaps start keeping bees? Lots and lots of book options for that kind of stuff - I have a ton. There is also a great magazine called "The Herb Companion" that might be nice.

Maybe she needs a nice new pair of pretty muck boots for use on the farm or veggie gathering baskets.

Or perhaps a gift wrapped goat:

https://youtu.be/ksONKL7kAt0

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KQ, thank you for your (as always) thoughtful responses; everyone is getting a goat whether they want it or not! You gave me some great ideas I'm going with and spurred a few more.

Bro in law with uncertain future with British automotive engineering: Going with a Maine guidebook and some gear for their annual clambakes - pots, cool servingwares... Great call!

Youngest sis: definitely collects and bakes/cooks from her books. So funny you mention King Arthur. Her roommate, co-blogger and friend for years and co-worker for a time at Gourmet and Bon Appetit is the "heiress" to King Arthur Flour; I've never seen another flour in her kitchen. She has, and swears by everything you mentioned. Great taste! I'm going to go with a spiff on your rec and do a diy baking with her girls gift. Thanks, that one got me thinking and really helped.

Oldest sis: Definitely doing those riding muck boots and some books. Perfect.


Oh, and everyone gets a goat. Still.

Thanks!

Get her some https://www.amazon.com/Antimo-Caputo.../dp/B01BB7U6W2 and a pizza steel for cooks with the girls.

Hi KQ, what's the best gift for a 12 year old cute little niece that you can suggest? One that is useful, or educational and will last long.

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Originally Posted by KQ

Any one of these Eddie Bauer sleep sweaters should do the trick: https://www.eddiebauer.com/s/sleep-s...leep%20sweater

I have one that I love and several guys on this site have given this sweater with great success.

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Thanks, KQ!

This is kind of awesome, for that special person on your list.
Attachment 351971

https://www.westelm.com/products/duc...et-tray-d5325/

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Originally Posted by SHarmon

Hi KQ, what's the best gift for a 12 year old cute little niece that you can suggest? One that is useful, or educational and will last long.

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Last year I suggested charming Chala leather purses/pocket books that were purchased by a board member for his nieces and wife and he said they went over wonderfully. This is the link to Amazon with all their products. You might find them locally where you live too. There is a store in W2 that sells them.

For a young girl I think a cross body strap would be the way to go. Note that some like this one are quite small and can only hold a cash (no wallet or coin purse) smart phone, keys, lip balm and maybe one or two other small items. They do come in a large selection of patterns to match the recipients likes. You can also get matching key chains.


Chala Crossbody Cell Phone Purse - Women PU Leather Multicolor Handbag with Adjustable Strap

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon...._AC_UY500_.jpg



Re: educational/thinking gifts I like this site for age approriate gifts - be sure and read the reivews as parents are good about giving details on how items were used/not used/too advanced/not advanced enough:

Fat Brain Toys

Not knowing your nieces interests it's hard for me to pick something but the things that I like from this site based on reviews and skill building are:

FOLD: Origami Brainteaser

3Doodler START 3D Themed Activity Kit

Action & Reaction Chaos Effect

Squishy Circuits Deluxe Kit

Pillow Craft!

Sew Your Own Furry Llama Pillow

And last but not least - one of my favorite toys as a kid:

Rubik's® 40th Anniversary Metallic

Ok KQ, I’d like to hear your ideas:

Firstly for my wife. 42. I already got her “big” gift but I’d also like some tips on:
-pajamas. This woman is always cold. She’s also tall and thin (so sizing can be difficult). Something super soft and warm and cozy. If it was something that I’d like to grope her in, even better. Though “this is for her”.

-fun kitchen stuff. She’s an awesome cook and enjoys it a lot. Ideas?

Secondly, my 13 yo daughter. In classic privileged, Colorado, white-girl status, she has everything she “needs”. She likes skiing, bike riding, and recently has started taking horseback riding lessons (english). She said she would like some new bike clothes. She already recently got new horseback riding boots. And new skis. Both in-bounds and a bc touring setup. Ugh. See? She has what she needs. Now, what can i get her that *she* doesn’t even know she wants (yay, consumerism)!

Lastly, for my mid-70s parents. Impossible to shop for as myfkngod they have everything they need. I usually use donate $50 in the name of some charity that makes them feel warm and fuzzy. Really, all i can tell you is that they HATE Donald Trump and are constantly restless. Always remodeling or considering moving. They just bought a new house (see?) so maybe something housewarming-y

Thanks! Your ideas are typically spot-on, so I appreciate the thoughts!


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Originally Posted by Tech Tonics

Ok KQ, I’d like to hear your ideas:

Firstly for my wife. 42. I already got her “big” gift but I’d also like some tips on:
-pajamas. This woman is always cold. She’s also tall and thin (so sizing can be difficult). Something super soft and warm and cozy. If it was something that I’d like to grope her in, even better. Though “this is for her”.

-fun kitchen stuff. She’s an awesome cook and enjoys it a lot. Ideas?

Secondly, my 13 yo daughter. In classic privileged, Colorado, white-girl status, she has everything she “needs”. She likes skiing, bike riding, and recently has started taking horseback riding lessons (english). She said she would like some new bike clothes. She already recently got new horseback riding boots. And new skis. Both in-bounds and a bc touring setup. Ugh. See? She has what she needs. Now, what can i get her that *she* doesn’t even know she wants (yay, consumerism)!

Lastly, for my mid-70s parents. Impossible to shop for as myfkngod they have everything they need. I usually use donate $50 in the name of some charity that makes them feel warm and fuzzy. Really, all i can tell you is that they HATE Donald Trump and are constantly restless. Always remodeling or considering moving. They just bought a new house (see?) so maybe something housewarming-y

Thanks! Your ideas are typically spot-on, so I appreciate the thoughts!

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Couple of questions:

Your wife - how tall? Does she bake bread and if not do you think she would like to start baking bread?

Real quick re: PJs and being cold (something I love and am always) I have these and love them for the winter. No, they aren't sexy but they are warm and now they come in tall:

Holiday Plaid Thermal-Top Pajama Gift Set

If you page down you will see more options - you can buy just one set or other combos. I have a half dozen pjs from this company and really like them.

It's quite possible all she needs are some good socks and/or slippers. If my feet are cold I'm freezing! These Ugg sleep socks are the bomb (other sites sell them like Zappos):

UGG Women's Cozy Chenille Sock

Daughter - what type of English riding? Dressage, Hunter-Jumper, Eventing, AQHA (Quarter horse), Saddle Seat?

Parents - do they drink wine?

Wife is 5’8” and 120.

Yes, she bakes bread. But, she’s gluten intolerant. She still makes loaves for friends and family. I wouldn’t say bread-baking is her favorite thing, and I’d probably like to avoid a bread-centric gift.

Those PJs and socks look great. I got her some really nice slippers for her birthday a few months ago so those would work well with them.

I’m not certain what type of English riding, but i think either dressage or hunter/jumper. That’s not my wheelhouse though.

Re: parents. fuck yes they drink wine. They drink it all.


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Originally Posted by Tech Tonics

Wife is 5’8” and 120.

Yes, she bakes bread. But, she’s gluten intolerant. She still makes loaves for friends and family. I wouldn’t say bread-baking is her favorite thing, and I’d probably like to avoid a bread-centric gift.

Those PJs and socks look great. I got her some really nice slippers for her birthday a few months ago so those would work well with them.

I’m not certain what type of English riding, but i think either dressage or hunter/jumper. That’s not my wheelhouse though.

Re: parents. fuck yes they drink wine. They drink it all.

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Your wife would wear a size M in those pajamas and no need for the Tall size (I'm 5'9" 140 and wear a medium). As I said, they might not be particuarly sexy but they are def warm and they wash well. Personally I really like the look but I'm only out to impress me. I have both the red and green plaid. That Nordic Hoodie Footie looks like it would be awesome to lounge around in if that is your thing.

Note: I did get a couple pairs I was less than excited about from Pajama Gram. One was the Snuggle Fleece. It's nice but the cut of the pants was low rise and the top was boxy which left my lower back cold. Nothing wrong with the product - it was me, not them. The other was a pair of their boyfriend flannel pjs. The issue there was the fabic - it shrunk up more than I would have liked and it was a wrinkled mess out of the dryer. I don't need pjs pressed but these were seriously balled up and would not relax.

Check out their World's Softest line, they look cute. May have to treat myself to some of those this year. I think the black cherry plaid are calling me. Actually might have gone into my shopping cart right now. LOL!

For cooking you could really go down the rabbit hole there. Does she have any Le Creuset? A 7.25 Dutch oven is a great place to start (they used to call them French ovens but I guess they've changed the name). Williams Sonoma sells a lot of Le Creuset and often has exlusive colors.

What about a Carbon steel pan? Has she ventured in to Sous Vide? Oft could help you out there - he's a master at it.

For your daughter you could always talk to her riding instructor for ideas or take a look through the Dover site. Lots of great stuff there like horse themed fleece. I always like getting gloves. Some people don't like to ride with gloves but again... I'm cold so in the winter insulated gloves are a must.

The quilted vest is classic English riding apparel. For a two in one you can go with the Equine Couture™ Children's Natasha Duet Jacket which has zip off sleeves and if you really want your girl to be styling down the barn aisle this Kerrits soft shell is just the ticket.

Of course there is always horse themed jewelry. On that note, does she have a charm bracelet? You might buy her a horse charm to add to it or if not buy her a bracelet and get her started on collecting. They are kind of old fashion but I like them. Have one myself full of charms that mark passages in my life like school achievements, travel, hobbies, sports etc.

For your parents why not buy them a wine club membership? To quote cousin Eddie "Clark that's the gift that keep on giving the whole year."

What about wine accessories? Do they have a good opener and preservation kit? Check out the wine accessories from Wine Enthusiast

If they already have too many wine memberships and accessories take a look through this site for cool and unusual gifts: Uncommon Goods. I always find stuff I like in here.

Last minute stocking stuffers for adults [not “adult” themed, just older than 25] ?

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Originally Posted by questionable_character

Last minute stocking stuffers for adults [not “adult” themed, just older than 25] ?

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Not sure what kind of thing you're used to putting in stockings or how much you spend but these are some things I might find in mine or put in others:

Do they live on their own? Got to a kitchen store for untensils, cute pan scrubbers, funny logo oven mits and towels. I always love recieving those mini spatulas - so good for so many things.

https://assets.wsimgs.com/wsimgs/rk/...-spatula-o.jpg

Do they like scented things? Hit up a bath shop and get travel sized hand lotion. To this end bath & body shops have tons of stuff that would work. Mostly for women but men too. Things like bath poofs, loofah, foot files etc. I have a male friend who loves hemp hand cream and my friend's daughter loves a nice bath lily both from The Body Shop

Burt's Bees lip balm is always welcome in my stocking. You can buy it individually or in sets. They have fruity but also a lovely honey. Regular is always great too. And while you're looking at Burt's Bees products they have a ton of stuff that would fit nicely in a stocking. Their lemon butter cuticle cream is great. You might still be able to find some of their gift sets on the shelves. You can find Burt's Bees at places like Rite-Aid, Walgreens, Wal-Mart and most grocery stores with a health food section. Sometimes you'll even find it at the last chance grab check-out stand display.

Here in W2 (and there is one in Wenatchee) we have an olive oil store that sells 100s of olive oils with sample size bottles. Those are nice to throw in a stocking. They also have pour spouts, extra bottles, specialty salts etc.

Hand made soaps are nice. A friend of mine makes goat's milk soap and sells it in a small kiosk in DT W2 - so many wonderful scents!

Do they drink wine? Lots of small items you can get at a wine shop like stoppers, foil cutters, wine away etc.

Gourmet tea/bag of special roast coffee beans

A key chain that has something to do with a hobby, like, pet etc.

Chocolates

Get to a book store and look at their gift section - same for a computer/office store.

A small sun catcher - you can probably find these at a garden or kitsch store. On the garden store note - there is a store in Woodinville outside of Seattle called Molbak's that has the most incredible gift store - really amazing. One year I bought someone a tiny wind chime called a Piccolo chime for their stocking. They also have things like ceramic toadstools on spikes that you can put in your garden pots or squirrel shaped pressed birdseed that you can hang. If you have such a store near you and there are gardeners or just people who like to sit on their patio and enjoy nature you should def. hit it up.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/10...g?v=1587848697





I also like to give ornaments. I usually try to tie the ornament to something about their life or something that happened to them/something they did or achieved.

Got a bottle of gourmet maple syrup from the Woodinville Whiskey Co. once - it was the bomb!
https://www.woodinvillewhiskeyco.com...up-detail1.png

My wife and I always get little single shot bottles of booze and scratchers for our stockings.

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Originally Posted by Supermoon

My wife and I always get little single shot bottles of booze and scratchers for our stockings.

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Yup - both good items. I was going to mention a split of champagne or prosecco. Fun little things. Bailey's, Kahlua or peppermint schapps are all nice too because you can open them right up and pour them in your coffee while your're opening presents.

If anyone here plans on getting their SO a vacuum, here's a wrapping suggestion
https://galleries.parentsdome.com/co...b82cbf989a.jpg

Nice double entendre.

A little late or maybe early but.....


https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/24...g?v=1610392202

Santa Vaccinated Ornament

How about a new President.

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Originally Posted by old goat

How about a new President.

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Santa already delivered that!

Attachment 364755

Green army guy ornament! LOL!

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/24...g?v=1573535512

Army Man Toy Ornament

Feels just a smidge bit early to be considering Christmas ornaments, no?

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Originally Posted by Diamond Joe

Feels just a smidge bit early to be considering Christmas ornaments, no?

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149 days.

Seems a bit aggro to put a trained fighting machine with a gun on a Christmas tree, no?

Peace, Joy, Love kinda thing.

Can't you just stick to your lacquered cookies with sprinkles and the felt things you do?

bless your heart….

My wife likes practical gifts.
I got here 4 of these for her birthday and she loves them. We have a refrigerator with freezer drawers and haven't hooked up the ice makers. We were always spilling water all over the inside of the freezer until we got them.
https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-No-...s%2C288&sr=8-1

100 days people!

Word on the street is buy early to avoid disappointment esp. anything with a microchip.

Only 11 shopping days left till my birthday

I've made a pact with myself to be nice on the trg, but fuck this bullshit. And happy birthday you old fucker.

10 weeks people which in today's world (i.e. supply chain disruption and slower deliver times) means tomorrow.

Check out this lovely travel accessory - would be great for a warming up après-ski:

Heated 12 Volt Fleece Travel Throw for Car and RV-Great for Cold Weather, Tailgating, and Emergency Kits

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

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Originally Posted by KQ

10 weeks people which in today's world (i.e. supply chain disruption and slower deliver times) means tomorrow.

Check out this lovely travel accessory - would be great for a warming up après-ski:

Heated 12 Volt Fleece Travel Throw for Car and RV-Great for Cold Weather, Tailgating, and Emergency Kits

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...AC_SL1500_.jpg

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I've tried a car seat heater as a DIY boot bag heater. It's better than nothing but far short of the genuine article hahaha.

+1 to get the shopping done NOW. Shipping prices are already through the roof and will get worse. Supplies are already dwindling on items with little hope of enough restocking much before the end of the year..

Damn, KQ, that looks great! I just bought it for my ski racing kiddo, lol.

Unfortunately, my other gift choice is a Black Friday kind of deal (hoping there's a deal), so can't buy now.

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Originally Posted by Danno

Damn, KQ, that looks great! I just bought it for my ski racing kiddo, lol.

Unfortunately, my other gift choice is a Black Friday kind of deal (hoping there's a deal), so can't buy now.

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With the new OLED version having just come out, I imagine there will be a Black Friday deal on the original one.

Glad to see this bumped.. Wife wants a new area rug for the living room. Color scheme ("colorway" apply to rugs?) mostly cream with royal blue. Current rug is fine IMO, hence the xmas request vs just buying one.

May be beyond your expertise, but any suggestions for retailers?

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Originally Posted by gavinski91

With the new OLED version having just come out, I imagine there will be a Black Friday deal on the original one.

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that's my hope. even if it's full price but has a game or two bundled in would be great.

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Originally Posted by JayPowHound

Glad to see this bumped.. Wife wants a new area rug for the living room. Color scheme ("colorway" apply to rugs?) mostly cream with royal blue. Current rug is fine IMO, hence the xmas request vs just buying one.

May be beyond your expertise, but any suggestions for retailers?

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I got a a couple of rugs through Ruggable for our new house. Cool system in that you lay down the bottom piece then there’s a washable top piece that you can more easily clean. You can also get other tops for like holidays or seasonality or whatever.

It’s been nice with a dog who tracks in mud and grass and who knows what from the backyard.

Just make sure they tie the room together.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JayPowHound

Glad to see this bumped.. Wife wants a new area rug for the living room. Color scheme ("colorway" apply to rugs?) mostly cream with royal blue. Current rug is fine IMO, hence the xmas request vs just buying one.

May be beyond your expertise, but any suggestions for retailers?

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Hmmmmm, all the area rugs I've ever purchased have been from local stores so I've no idea about reputable online companies. That said I have heard good things about the rugs mentioned by Super and I've bought some great high traffic area rugs from HD. I particularly like that I was able to order a runner for the kitchen by the foot. Sorry I can't be of more help.

https://images.homedepot-static.com/...309-64_145.jpg

+1 for ruggable. Inside ones are good. Outside ones are great

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