12 Itty-Bitty Gifts We Love
My mom is the opposite of materialistic — she wants everything to be useful, and she already has too many T-shirts, mugs, and books. She’s not girly at all. Here’s what she does like: coffee, Star Trek, planes, the space program, old cars, baseball, cats, being Jewish, travel, and NYC. But I want to avoid being repetitive — I’ve given lots of coffee, Rick Steve’s travel guides, days at the ballpark, and nonfiction books. Please help! — K.G.
From gifting expert Samantha Schoech:
The first thing that popped into my head was this brass Oy Vey ring. Yes, it’s jewelry, but it’s also irreverent and chunky, and not at all fussy or traditionally girly. These vintage-inspired caps emblazoned with historic (and sometimes fictional) emblems could appeal to the baseball-loving New Yorker in her. They make jerseys, too.
I recently discovered a brand of wooden toy cars that are meant for kids but make great tchotchkes for adults. Not exactly “useful,” but cool nevertheless. I love the surf wagon based on an old Ford Woody, and the classic NY Taxi. Your mom might like the Mars Rover.
Hear me out on this next one because it’s definitely silly (but also useful!). This doormat combines two of her interests: cats and Star Trek. Who said it couldn’t be done? If that’s a step too far, what about these Star Trek sticky notes?
Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our favorite reading light, which I firmly believe every reader and traveler should own.
I hope this helps! Happy birthday to your cool mom.
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