Christmas is a time of giving. Every year we struggle to find the perfect gift for our loved ones. Making a choice year in and year out of what to give can be difficult, and especially during times of economic hardship. I believe that making people feel good with humor in tough times is the solution for both the giver and the receiver. While doing my buying for La Buena Vida this year, I focused on inexpensive gifts that are both practical, funny and yet inexpensive.

Here are my 2011 Top 5 Gifts to Get A Smile, all of which are under 25 euro:

Diamond Oven Mitt

1) Diamond Oven Mitt: A high quality neoprene oven mitt sure to make her giggle when she sees the bling! The outside of the oven mitt features a women’s hand with a significant “diamond” ring on the wedding finger. This fun gift will make kitchen safety glamorous, and will provide many laughs throughout the year.

Priced at 10,50 euro

Plaid Hip Flask

2) ”Burberry” Hip Flask: For the gentleman who has everything: a flask with style. This handsome flask will add panache while sipping a brandy or whiskey on a cold wintery day. For sure this gift is something they do not already own…make him smile! Also available in Scotch plaid, and a pink “Burberry” plaid for the girl who sports a flask.

Priced at 9,95 euro

Fun Cake Server

3) High Heel Cake Server: This fun cake server will be used at every party. For the shoe loving girl. Do you know a “Carrie Bradshaw” or “Imelda”? This is the ideal gift for them: sexy, comfortable and stylish. And it even serves the cake well….she can have her cake and wear it too!

Priced at 15.95 euro

For The Serious Musician Chef

4) Mix Stix: Do you have a “Rock and Roller” in your family who also likes to cook? Let him or her rock out in the kitchen with these great wooden drumstick spoons. One end for rockin and one end for mixin! There will never be a dull moment in this person’s kitchen.

Priced at 12,95 euro

I'm Hot Coffee on The Go

5) I’m Hot Traveler Coffee Cup: This well made Coffee-to-go cup has a cozy message: Hold Me Tight…I’m Hot! With ceramic on the outside, stainless steel on the inside, and sipper lid the coffee will also be HOT! Large enough to help get a commuter awake before they arrive at work.

Priced at 24,95 euro

While finishing up your holiday shopping this week, keep your sense of humor, and give the gift that keeps on giving…SMILES!

Drop into La Buena Vida for these, and many other unique fun gifts priced for everyone. We have special hours to help with your hectic shopping days and nights: Mon. 9:00-18:00, Tues & Wed 9:00-20:00, Thurs 9:00-22:00, Friday 9:00-19:00 and Sat, Christmas Eve: 9:00-14:00.

Living La Buena Vida all year through with a smile. Happy Holidays to you and Yours!

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