The Scratch

5 Handy Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are here again and what better way to celebrate than by spreading joy among your family and friends with thoughtful, fun gifts! We understand there are always going to be people on your shopping list that pose a problem like the sister that has everything or the curmudgeon brother in-law that doesn’t like anything even remotely trendy. That’s why we compiled a list of five handy holiday gift ideas to help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list. Enjoy and share your favorite handy gift ideas with us in the comments or on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

1. Portable Phone Charger
   There is always someone out in public doing some complex yoga exercises in order to find a power outlet. These technological Zen masters are looking for the peace of mind only found when they can send that well thought out text they’ve been considering for the last 5 percent of their battery. We all know someone who is constantly looking for juice. Help that person out with a portable phone charger. Most are slim enough to fit in a pocket and can help a device hold a charge for hours. No more downward facing texter poses for them.
   
2. Gift Cards
   This might not be the most original gift but hear me out. Gift cards are probably some of the most widely available gifts around and they are extremely handy. Most stores carry gift cards and many even offer gift cards to other stores. They also come in many forms like gas cards, car washes, groceries, clothes or even just as cash. You can’t mess that up.
   
3. Ice Scraper Mitt
   I find no fault in giving someone a practical gift. Though the weather has been unseasonably warm this year, the snow is coming. And with the snow, comes the frost covered windows of our beloved sleighs. Too often we see people scraping their windows with bare hands that are soon lousy with frostbite. With an ice scraper mitt, you can make icicle appendages a thing of the past and be the hero your friends and family need this winter.
   
4. Activity Tracker
   The days are darker, shorter and colder in the winter. This makes the idea of going home and hunkering down for the night very appealing. This trap we set for ourselves can be a death sentence for our once respectable belly. That’s why it is important to stay active throughout the winter. With an activity tracker you can help your loved ones avoid the holiday spare tire with a little electronic encouragement. Again, you will be a holiday hero!
   
5. Nebraska Lottery Tickets
   – assuming he or she is at least 19, of course. Consider this: How many other gifts can you give that not only offer the thrill and excitement of playing a new game but also the chance to win more tickets, cash and other prizes? There are a handful of price points and dozens of different types of games so there’s bound to be a game that not only fits your budget but is perfect for any person on your list!