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Good gift giving is basically a form of art. There’s nothing a nice present can't do; it can lift a mood or improve a relationship, repair a wrongdoing, or remind someone you care about them. So no wonder gifts have a special place in our minds, no matter how much we often dread them (don’t even remind me about the Christmas gift hunt!).
The useful gift route is the one to go, but hey, there’s no universal guarantee that whatever you think of as useful would feel the same for the person who’ll receive it. So today, we are taking a look into presents that pleasantly surprised people who had no clue they needed them.
“What’s the best 'I didn’t know I needed that' gift you’ve received?” someone asked on Ask Reddit a while ago and the responses are basically a solid list of cool gift ideas. Scroll down through them below and upvote your favorite ones!
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#1
When I first became a cop I was getting blown away with what I dealt with. There was also so much death and the fear of getting shot. In my own personal life I also had so much stress and depression. One day I was working a school detail and a little kindergartner skipped by. She giggled and handed me a drawing of a kitten she made for me. It literally brought tears to my eyes. I was truly touched. No one had ever thanked me for anything on the job or given me such a kind gesture in years.
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#2
I was furious with my husband when I figured out that money had been just...disappearing from our bank account. I confronted him about it in April. He straight lied in my face and said he needed to spend some of his paycheck on scaffolding. I didn't believe him, but he's never lied before, so I let it go. Celebrating my birthday in November, I'm unwrapping presents with him and my family, and there are 25 wrapped up...fish. Fish toys for cats, glass fish, candy fish, wooden fish...and an underwater watch. I'm not bright because I hadn't figured it out...They got me a trip to Vieques, Puerto Rico to learn how to scuba dive. I don't deserve them. He'd been saving for a year. I saw a DOLPHIN with a BABY DOLPHIN. UNDERWATER. 6 FEET AWAY FROM MY FACE.
It's the best thing ever. It's like flying on another planet.
Scagsy 2 years ago
That's a lovely tale. I wish I could afford to do that for my wife. She deserves it, putting up with me for all this time.
Caro Caro 2 years ago
She doesn't "put up with you". She's with you because she loves you. X
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BlackestDawn 2 years ago
And this is one of the main reasons for not pooling/sharing ALL of your income. Having a decent amount of spending money can save a lot of arguments from ever starting.
James Tartaglione 2 years ago
these are the only secrets spouses should keep from one another. good secrets only
Jennifer Pountney 2 years ago
I love your final sentence, that’s exactly what it’s like! I’ve always said it’s like being in another world but your description is so much better!
bugsway Frisk 2 years ago
I used to do that all the time for my husband... I would be listening to what he wanted most and planning on getting those things without his knowledge by saving money here and there and everywhere. But at the end not even that saved our marriage....
Marnie 2 years ago
I would not like this. The memory of feeling somewhat betrayed would remain. I wouldn't be able to simply erase it from my brain - kind of like a prank where you walk in and see murdered people, but they are not actually murdered. The shock doesn't get instantly erased. I don't understand expensive gifts for spouses. If someone wants something, discuss it like adults to see if it fits into the budget.
#3
My mom just randomly bought me a jogging shirt saying. Maybe you can use this if you run.
I was unhealthy fat short kid, she was trying to encourage me.
Couldn't even run 1 km without questioning my existence.
Several months later I could do 10km in below 40 min, and ran 50km a week.
I got so thin that my friends mom asked me if I'm sick (she thought I had cancer)
After a while I realized that this is not good for my back.
So I started lifting weights in the neighbourhood gym.
I went there so much that the owner made me take charge of it.
Im now the head of the gym and have transformed it completely.
I don't look sick anymore and have a healthy amount of muscle. But im still short .
All of this because of some random running fleece shirt. I still have it today 10 years later...
To find out more about navigating the daunting world of gift giving, we spoke with Lynn How, the author of “Positive Young Mind'' and life coach who specializes in supporting educators, parents, and children with improving and prevention of mental health issues. She also runs this Facebook teacher coaching group which is an excellent resource for teachers in need of support when leaving, changing their mindset, changing their schools or setting healthy work/life boundaries.
Something thoughtful is always the best way to go when picking a present for a person, Lynn argues. But “if you don't know the person, perhaps see if you can glean some information from a mutual friend if possible or see if their social media profiles give anything away,” she said and added to “not forget to check for allergies before buying food!”
#4
My ex bought me vitamin D tablets maybe a month or so into dating. I'd been pretty unwell around that time, cancelling one date and bailing early on another. Id had blood tests done but the results weren't back yet.
He showed up for a date one day and had the tablets for me as a present. It was pretty sweet to just get me a present for no reason other than to make me feel better. And when the blood tests came back, one of the things wrong with me was a vitamin D deficiency, so I did need them but didn't know yet.
I guess you could say I really appreciated that he gave me the D...
#5
My nephew bought my wife a cheap plastic duck call. I have no idea why my nephew thought this a perfect gift, but he was 100% correct. It is now known as the 'cat whistle' in our house because the cats stop whatever naughty thing they were doing immediately upon hearing it.
#6
Two tickets to Les Miserables. I had absolutely no desire to see the show although my (now ex-) wife had been seriously hinting about it. When I opened the envelope on Christmas morning I was pretty pissed. She basically gifted herself. I was still pissed when I was dragged to the theater. The performance began... and I was in tears after ten minutes. It was just an incredible live performance and before we left I would buy the CD and listen to it for hours.
Lynn said that hands down the worst presents she has heard of are husbands buying wives items which are used for domestic chores: “a hoover is not a good gift!” But what if we put too much importance on the presents we give? According to Lynn, love can't be bought and although the odd grand gesture is lovely, “I'd much rather receive a thoughtful smaller gift or experience such as being taken on a surprise picnic with some lovely food!”
#7
A kitten, from a total stranger. Yes, really. I wouldn't describe myself as much of a 'cat person', per se, and I wasn't even sure what to do with it at first. A few years down the line, and it's basically my best friend. A constant companion whenever I'm @ home. And to think I preferred dogs once, yeesh!
Alessa Gillespie 2 years ago
Never say you are not a cat person until you share your life with one. It baffles me that there's people who don't like them
#8
My husband's aunt buys the most practical gifts you could think of! Every year for Christmas I'm excited for her gifts like she bought some insulated bags last year. The year before she got me a nice nail care set and the Rock file is perfect to use on my baby's nails! I never think of the things she buys but every thing she buys is super useful!
#9
Calvin and Hobbes book from my mother. Had never heard of them before but I subsequently bought the rest of the books and love them now.
Moreover, the life coach and educator argues that “gifts become materialistic if they become expected and regular but it depends on what your ideals are for your individual relationship as well as how long you have been together.” Lynn concluded that “Someone who showered me with expensive gifts after only a few dates might be coming on a bit too strong for my liking!”
#10
A good set of bath towels. My grandmother gave me a set as a graduation gift. I knew how expensive good towels and I knew she really had to save up for them, so I was thankful, but the same kind of thankful you are when grandpa gives you his dentures for Christmas.
"I'll be damned if I don't use those towels every day 7 years later (though I do need a new set at this point). They are very easily the most used gift I have ever been given.
#11
My parents got me an oversized bath robe when I was younger. Kinda disappointed until I saw the gift card stuffed in the pocket. I think I enjoyed whatever I bought with the gift card. But that bath robe, lemmie tell you, wearing that sucker right now.
#12
It's not really a gift, but hearing my stepmom say she'll always be there, and that I can always talk to her and also constantly getting hugs from her. Just my stepmom in general, really. After therapy and talking heart to heart with my stepmom I've realized my mom isn't that kind of person, it's not easy to talk to her about deep stuff, and we don't hug too often. I really didn't know how much I needed that
Martin Kaine 2 years ago
A person's time and love are the best gifts. You can also tell the people who have never received such a gift.
#13
My brother jokingly bought me a squatty potty a few Christmas’s ago after we saw the commercial a few months prior.
I killed myself laughing again when I opened it up and stuck it in front of the toilet to send him a picture. Well, I forgot to move it after so it was there the next time I used the bathroom.
Let me tell y’all something. If you have any kind of digestive issues at all, the squatty potty is a work of art. Best poops of my life, I’ll tell you what.
Tiny Dancer 2 years ago
I'm sure this is excellent advice, but all I can see is Hank Hill trying to poop in that one ep of "King of the Hill", lol. I'll tell you what!
#14
My mom got me a new duvet when I was 12/13 and a second duvet she made into matching curtains, they were in hindsight pretty garish. But I’d shared a room until I was 11, so it was nice being given things that were just mine to make my space more personal. Seems an odd gift but for poorer families it can actually be quite meaningful.
#15
A printer. Back then I had absolutely no use for a printer. But fast forward about five years, now I am in university, and that printer is a blessing to have. Thanks Dad.
#16
A clock for the bathroom. Wasn't intended for the bathroom was just a cute small clock but it matched my bathroom decor so it went there. It helped massively with time management specially for morning showers when I had no idea how long my showers were and used to end up rushing to get ready for work.
#17
My brother buys my wife and I board games for Christmas and birthdays, I forgot how much fun they can be
Kindlovinghumble 2 years ago
We have once a wk board game nights with our kids. It's become something they look forward to even though they are still younger. (12 and younger) It also gets them away from technology and is a way to discuss their lives and what's going on while having fun. (Instead of just talking at the dinner table about their days) I REALLY recommend it!
#18
A pair of good headphones. I listen to music almost on a daily basis and settled with ok earbuds because I didnt see the need for big headphones. It was like a revelation the first time I put them on because I never knew the audio could sound so clear before. It was incredible and I use them all the time now.
Kindlovinghumble 2 years ago
Plus you can hear words and sometimes little Easter eggs that you never would've heard before.
#19
A small tool box from my father-in-law the first Christmas after I got married. I have used it so many times.
#20
My best friend mailed me a humidifier a couple years ago when I had a chest cold. It’s the best gift I didn’t know I needed.
#21
A door stopper on the end of a telescopic stick. Truly moving around in a wheel chair has been revolutionized for my mother. No need for anyone to hold the door.
#22
I'm a big dinosaur nerd. A couple years ago for my 30th birthday I got a mint in box Dino Riders torosaurus that I always wanted as a kid. It totally blew my mind and it was a weird yet fantastic feeling opening up a dinosaur toy at that age
#23
A bidet attachment for my toilet! Now I feel like a caveman pooping anywhere else. I tell everyone that they need to invest in one, and those who have enjoy it as much as we do.
#24
When my aunt gave me the Lord of the Rings, the trilogy all in one amazing book. It changed everything and made me a nerd.
MarmotArchivist 2 years ago
A familiy friend lent me his copy when I first read it. My parents then bought me my own copy for christmas. I was elated to say the least.😊
#26
One of those plastic covers to use in the microwave... absolutely game changing.
TheHappyBookCat 2 years ago
Yeah, those things make sure that when you microwave something liquidy it doesn't explode al over the mocrowave.
#27
A Banana Saver. It's a hard case that encloses a banana to protect it. No more bruised banana or banana guts squished into the bottom of your bag.
MarmotArchivist 2 years ago
I can relate. You need a whole team of crime scene cleaners to remove the banana guts from your bag.
#28
I got a waterproof bluetooth speaker for my shower as a stocking stuffer 5 years ago. I can't take a shower without my tunes anymore. I love it.
#29
Instant pot. I just love it! I make delicious stews now.
#30
An upright, self-defrosting food freezer.
Never thought I'd need one. Now, can't imagine not having it.
What do you think ?
howdylee 2 years ago
Upon buying our first home, my husband's aunt gave us a laundry basket that was filled with an assortment of household cleaning items. Was super handy to take that with us first thing after getting the keys. Also received a small electric screwdriver as a christmas present. Hubby is a carpenter so has a ton of heavy duty professional tools, but they're too big for random house needs. This thing is small and light so i can use it more easily, and also fits in the junk drawer.
memyselfandI 2 years ago
I asked for needlenose pliers for my birthday once as a kid, because I kept stealing the ones in the hardware drawer for crafts, and instead got an entire tool set. I still use the pliers the most, but I’m very glad I have more than just those.
K Witmer 2 years ago
Bedding is the best gift. My mom was the best at picking out the softest cotton everything. Very expensive stuff but man I've used one cotton comforter every day for 20 years and it washes like it's brand new every month. I had it wrapped around me for two years now during isolation and there's not even a pulled thread. I try to do that now w my mil and sil. Silk pillowcases Casper pillows Egyptian cotton medium thread count washes up the softest way better than the highest. High quality cotton small square stitching is the absolute best to sleep in and keeps your body the perfect temperature
Claire Stanfield 2 years ago
Kitchen towels, a kitchen garbage with a pedal to open hands-free and clothespins. All gifts from my MIL, eminently practical and amazing. I use the clothespins for chip clips too!
Rens 2 years ago
Finally, at 46, and becoming disabled, I had access to my own money and I could buy things I wanted and that made my life easier. Best buys: dishwasher, sunrise lamp, smart home gadgets, electric screwdriver set, mini fan I can keep in my handbag. I've also bought useful things for my partner: an electric one cup water boiler, waterproof Bose mini speaker, USB mini lamp. I love giving practical gifts.
jenjie.newt 2 years ago
A good electric drill and a ladder, lifesavers as a young single female
K Witmer 2 years ago
I got my daughter her own tool kit for Christmas this year. She laughed but she has used it so much to redo her room and bathroom this year. She doesn't have to go asking me or her dad for what she needs. Has an electric screwdriver and a foldable stool. Also got her a rechargeable kit that blows up flat tires, flashlight, phone charger. We live in an isolated area so it's a practical life saver for her. It also jumps your battery. She's used it twice. Things you don't think to buy yourself are always great
Load More Replies...
K Witmer 2 years ago
I wonder if you can make popcorn in an air fryer? My mom had the air popper when I was young. It's got to be the same concept right ?
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Eat Dirt Crow 2 years ago
A good gift to get someone who just bought their first house is a 5 gallon bucket, a 25' Stanley tape measure and a Home Depot gift card. They will use all three in the first year, I guarantee it. At least here in the US.
meowgie catster 2 years ago
My parents got me a nice set of waterproof clothes for Christmas one year - having a dry butt after a long day of sailing is so much better than the old ones I had that constantly leaked and weren’t very waterproof
howdylee 2 years ago
Upon buying our first home, my husband's aunt gave us a laundry basket that was filled with an assortment of household cleaning items. Was super handy to take that with us first thing after getting the keys. Also received a small electric screwdriver as a christmas present. Hubby is a carpenter so has a ton of heavy duty professional tools, but they're too big for random house needs. This thing is small and light so i can use it more easily, and also fits in the junk drawer.
memyselfandI 2 years ago
I asked for needlenose pliers for my birthday once as a kid, because I kept stealing the ones in the hardware drawer for crafts, and instead got an entire tool set. I still use the pliers the most, but I’m very glad I have more than just those.
K Witmer 2 years ago
Bedding is the best gift. My mom was the best at picking out the softest cotton everything. Very expensive stuff but man I've used one cotton comforter every day for 20 years and it washes like it's brand new every month. I had it wrapped around me for two years now during isolation and there's not even a pulled thread. I try to do that now w my mil and sil. Silk pillowcases Casper pillows Egyptian cotton medium thread count washes up the softest way better than the highest. High quality cotton small square stitching is the absolute best to sleep in and keeps your body the perfect temperature
Claire Stanfield 2 years ago
Kitchen towels, a kitchen garbage with a pedal to open hands-free and clothespins. All gifts from my MIL, eminently practical and amazing. I use the clothespins for chip clips too!
Rens 2 years ago
Finally, at 46, and becoming disabled, I had access to my own money and I could buy things I wanted and that made my life easier. Best buys: dishwasher, sunrise lamp, smart home gadgets, electric screwdriver set, mini fan I can keep in my handbag. I've also bought useful things for my partner: an electric one cup water boiler, waterproof Bose mini speaker, USB mini lamp. I love giving practical gifts.
jenjie.newt 2 years ago
A good electric drill and a ladder, lifesavers as a young single female
K Witmer 2 years ago
I got my daughter her own tool kit for Christmas this year. She laughed but she has used it so much to redo her room and bathroom this year. She doesn't have to go asking me or her dad for what she needs. Has an electric screwdriver and a foldable stool. Also got her a rechargeable kit that blows up flat tires, flashlight, phone charger. We live in an isolated area so it's a practical life saver for her. It also jumps your battery. She's used it twice. Things you don't think to buy yourself are always great
Load More Replies... K Witmer 2 years ago
I wonder if you can make popcorn in an air fryer? My mom had the air popper when I was young. It's got to be the same concept right ?
Load More Replies... Eat Dirt Crow 2 years ago
A good gift to get someone who just bought their first house is a 5 gallon bucket, a 25' Stanley tape measure and a Home Depot gift card. They will use all three in the first year, I guarantee it. At least here in the US.
meowgie catster 2 years ago
My parents got me a nice set of waterproof clothes for Christmas one year - having a dry butt after a long day of sailing is so much better than the old ones I had that constantly leaked and weren’t very waterproof
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