Best Gifts for Boys

The holidays are near, and I have been looking for great gift ideas for boys. I have found some unique options that work for all budgets, and cover a variety of interests. I know you will find a gift or two on this list that would delight the boys on your shopping list.

Samples have been provided for inclusion.

Boys that like to build will be into this tool set from Stanley Jr. This set has safety glasses, a hammer, a functional tape measure and screwdrivers to get little ones started. Order from Amazon.

Laser Pegs are awesome for holiday gifting. They take a favorite activity for boys, like building and combine lights for a really fun experience. Laser Peg kits start at $8 so this is a gift that works for even the tightest budget. They offer a variety of kits so you are bound to find one that matches the boy on your lists interest.

The Mega Cyborg Hand from Thames & Kosmos is an awesome stem kit that kids will want to get a grip on! They can build this hydraulic hand and then wear it for a giant dose of fun. Order it online for about $40.

Clixo offers an open-ended play system that combines the magic of paper origami, the ease of classic building blocks, and the power of magnets. This unique toy brings building to a modern level. Order a pack or two for curious boys on your list starting at about $24.

Snap Ships are awesome gifts because it combines building and battling which are two things that most boys dig. Parents will love that this creative building toy  adds dramatic play to the table and that all parts are interchangeable, so that the building fun continues into new creations. Check out the line of options from Play Monster, or find some of the exclusive kits at Target. Kits start at $12,

Molotow Mini Subwayz are unique and fun. These little train cars fold and are ready to graffiti for a fun activity. Boys will love to collect these, and in some way fulfill a fantasy of what it would be like to be a graffiti artist, in a safe way. Order the cars starting at about $13.

K'nex is always a great gift idea. These kits are challenging to build and absolutely impressive to admire! The Eiffel Tower Kit stands over 29 inches high and is the perfect way to spend a snowy afternoon. Order this awesome option from the Basic Fun amazon store for about $50.

Boys will love this table tennis set from Pro Spin. It will give them a chance to get some active play in, anytime, anywhere. The set contains a retractable net, balls, 2 paddles and a carry case. Order for about $35.

Blinks by Move38 is a incredibly unique gift option for game loving boys. Each Blink is a game cartridge and a game tile. Blinks connect to other Blinks. Together they become an interactive board game. You can get the three pack which has 18 games for about $300.

Tifosi Optics makes stylish and useful sunglasses that will protect their eyes this winter. We usually equate sunglasses with summer, but make no mistake, kids need eye protection in the winter too, as it can be so bright when it snows.  Check out the assortment of swanky styles and find styles starting around $25.

Boys will love Flipover Frog the game. This strategy game is loads of fun for kids and only takes about 15 minutes to play, for a quick game anytime boys need a dose of fun! Order this option from Hub Games for about $13.

Boys who love trains will want to play with the Action Tunnel Circle Set by Brio all day long. This train set is perfect for the youngest conductors to explore. This set is comparable with all of the Brio train gear, so that the set can grow with your child. Order from amazon for about $100.

Smarty Pad is one of my favorite gifts for preschool and kindergarten aged boys because it combines play, education, technology and sensory all in one portable, engaging package. Order one for a boy who loves to learn from Amazon for about $35.

City Spies makes a great gift for boys who love to read. This book has excitement, suspense and a chance at redemption. It makes for an enjoyable read for elementary aged kids. Order from Amazon starting at $11.

Little Justice Leaders is a monthly subscription for kids that will inspire them to make changes to the social justice system while empowering! This subscription includes goodies like books and colored pencils, among other fun items that kids will get excited about receiving monthly. Prices start at $45 a month.

My kids love Little Learning Hands boxes, because they are fun! I love them because while we are not traveling this year, we can still explore the world while learning from home. These 3d Puzzles are awesome for a snow day activity, or a chance to make learning hands on. Check out the puzzles on amazon where they start at about $17. Check out the subscription boxes on the Little Learning Hands site.

If your kids love Ryan on Youtube, then run to Walmart to get this epic Vending Surprise! This has 16 surprises inside and makes such fun sounds! You even get to build your own Ryan from this vending surprise machine, which is bound to be a lot of fun for kids. Get this offering from Just Play Toys at Walmart for about $40.

Relay makes for a great gift for kids who want a little independence, and parents who want a little peace of mind. This device keeps tabs on where the kids are, and gives them a way to call for help if needed. Order a Relay device for a boy on your shopping list for about $35. 

Upbrainery Technologies offers kids a hands on chance to learn! These kits include everything kids need to build something epic, like a digital photo frame, or a bluetooth speaker to name a few. Check out the site to find something epic for your kids to create.

Brushing teeth doesn't have to be a bore. This year gift an awesome boy a way to turn brushing his teeth into a fun game with Brite Brush. Find this interactive toothbrush at Walmart or Amazon for about $20. Chances are you won't need to argue about brushing anymore!

Learn together how to solve the Rubik’s in a fun and interactive way, play games and battle online with other cubers around the world. This is the perfect STEM toy, it is educating and fun and adds tons of value to screen time. Order Go Cube Edge for about $80.

A great sports watch never goes out of style, and this Fila watch is handsome and durable making it a perfect watch for a school aged boy. They have a ton of options so finding the perfect watch is fuss free. Plus you can find some awesome options for about $30.

Give boys ages 3 to 9 a hands on lesson in coding with Osmo. The starter pack breaks down coding into a fun play session so that kids can start learning something super useful in a very kid friendly way. Order the Osmo Coding Starter Kit for about $80.

The Powerup Paper Airplane Kit is awesome for boys this holiday season! This unique idea takes the art of folding paper planes to a whole new level, powered up, of course! Build 10 awesome planes and give them a boost of flying power thanks to technology! This kit costs about $115.

Boys who love space will love building the Mars Space Base from Goju Adventures Toys. This kit has everything needed to build a space station, including some astronauts! This creative building set costs about $45 and can be found on Amazon.

If you are shopping for a dinosaur loving boy this year, look no further than the Egg Mazing Dinomazing Egg Decorator. Find this really fun art kit on Amazon for about $28 for a roaring good time!

Pizza Party Throwdown is an awesome game for boys who like pizza and fun! This game has you tossing and hopefully landing toppings to create pizzas! Order it for about $20 from Amazon or find it at Target.

 Go Noodle offers mindful videos for kids and they have a shop filled with fun! I love the Cookie Decorating Class which includes cookie cutters, an apron and the online lesson on how to make the cookies! Order for about $75 or check out the other goodies in their shop.

I hope these gift ideas help you find some epic gifts for the boys in your life.

While you are here why not check out all of my gift guides?

Ideal Denim to Rock Any day and Anywhere

 To find the right pair of jeans for your everyday activities, you have to be patient. This clothing is a staple outfit for your wardrobe collection. In actuality, you may even consider purchasing a second pair due to the style and comfort it provides. With two pairs of denim, you may not consider visiting the clothing store in a long time. To spice up your clothing collection, you can get various washes.

In selecting your ideal clothing, comfort should come first. Interestingly, there are no rules in the world of fashion, especially with denim. You have to wear what makes you feel good. But bear in mind that not all jeans look great on everyone. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn the different styles of denim for different body shapes.

Denim and Body Shapes

Your physique should determine the type of denim you purchase. Straight-leg, cropped, or skinny jeans 

are ideal for individuals with small stature. If you want to highlight your legs, high-waist denim would be the right call. This style also accentuates your curves and reveal more about your feminine feature. Overly stretchy jeans may not give you the structural balance you seek. Hence, go for their heavier counterparts. These outfits have limited stretch to hold your body firmly.

Skinny jeans are great for most ladies as a result of the comfort and elasticity they provide. So, you can get a spandex-like physique while rocking your denim. Jeans with indigo or dark hues will make you look hot.

Age Counts

If you intend to purchase a pair of jeans, bear in mind that your outfit must reflect your age. Most older adults make the mistake of wearing styles meant for younger folks. As a result, they look older than their actual age. In some cases, trends play a role in this outcome. But you don’t need trendy clothes to maintain a relevant look – all you need is the right jeans. Remember, what is in vogue today, may be out of style in the nearest future. Don’t be scared to rock an outfit that complements your age.

Additionally, you have to consider your vintage appearance than style – the classic jeans. These outfits are evergreen – even in several years to come. You cannot go wrong with them any day and anytime, whether for your work activity or social event.

Experiment to Find Ideal Jeans

It is not uncommon to find most people being scared of trying out something new. Understandably, you enjoy rocking the usual. But how about trying a different style, the likes of mom jeans, boyfriend jeans, and dungarees? Others out there include tapered and high-waist jeans. You can make the right fashion statement with these outfits. Unveil your feminine charm without revealing your skin; this leaves you shrouded in mystery.

As much as you would love to experiment, do not purchase your jeans on a whim. Of course, there are no rules; but following a guideline will reduce the time, cost, and effort of buying a pair of jeans. Investing in this clothing will not only spice up your wardrobe but also give you limitless fashion opportunities.

Romantic things to do in Sacramento

 California's capital lies in the Sacramento Valley with downtown Sacramento, located by the State's largest river, the Sacramento River. Besides cool Riverwalk, the city offers numerous parks for romantic walks, diverse cultural offers, plenty of attractions, and top-rated restaurants for a couple’s night out. Sacramento is known as "America's most diverse city" and is also called the most hipster city.

You will need visa usa esta approval for foreign visitors who want to explore Sacramento, the broad valley, or the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains. The permit to enter the US is for travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver program. Candidates must fill out a detailed online form, and the administration requires around 72 hours to process the application. Once you get ESTA approval, there is a two-year period for visiting the US. But once you touch down in Sacramento, you’ll find a lot of romantic things to do. Drop your bags at a luggage storage and take your time winding through the city hand in hand.

Date ideas Sacramento

Sacramento River caused numerous floods in the past, and it is one reason city orientation is almost entirely on one side. The city's waterfront is a vibrant place with more than 120 restaurants, bars, and shops along the Old Sacramento Waterfront historic district. The Old Town will bring you back to the beginning of Sacramento. Well- preserved buildings from the gold rush era, cobbled stones, and driving in horse-drawn carriages will enhance your romance. If you're a culture buff, go to the Sacramento History Museum and State Railroad Museum, where you can even catch a train ride from the last stop of the Pony Express route and first station for the transcontinental railroad.

While at the river, book a Sacramento Dinner Cruise. You can enjoy a sunset, try various great meals, and showcase your dance moves. For those who are reluctant to sail out, you can get dinner and show on the Delta King.

Another excellent dining experience is the Mystique Dining Show in a classic manor setting with full service, several course meals followed by a magic show. If you are looking for something less pretentious, you can head to Devine Gelateria to debunk or confirm the best gelato claims in the world in comments.

Best parks in Sacramento

For couples that explore a destination on foot, Sacramento has excellent parks, which is not a surprise if we know the city's nickname- the City of Trees. McKinley Park is a popular place in East Sacramento with a beautiful rose garden, several trails, and ponds.

Capitol Park along with the International World Peace Gardens. You can explore the Capitol Building, a significant historic landmark and one of the oldest best-preserved government buildings in the US. The Park is essentially a botanical garden, and close by is the American River.

Southside Park has a lake with a fishing location and a big playground. Cameron Park is in Christa McAuliffe Park. North Natomas regional Park hosts a farmers' market, bike trails, and other amenities. 

Waterfalls in Sacramento

California has stunning natural beauty and remarkably diverse landscapes, and the Sacramento surroundings are no different. The closest waterfall near Sacramento Is in Hidden Falls Regional Park. The area has more than 30 miles of trails and an excellent viewpoint to observe waterfalls.

The Dutch Creek Falls are around one-hour drive from Sacramento. There is a four-mile route to the waterfall at the place where Dutch Creek and Johnston Falls meet.

Sly Park recreation area has Parc Creek human-made waterfall and plenty of other lake activities like swimming, picnics, and trails. Bassi Falls in El Dorado County falls 109 feet over the granite cliff. Lower  

Eagle Falls is in Emerald State Park with the most stunning views in the spring. Other incredible waterfalls near Sacramento include Cascade Falls overlooking Lake Tahoe, Rattlesnake Falls, and Upper Glen Alpine Falls.

Fun things to do in Sacramento at night

Why not start a night with a little laughter. Sacramento Comedy Spot is the largest comedy school in the region, with shows six-nights a week.

You can go back on the water on Alive After Five Cruise with cocktails, DJ, and dance floor with plenty of time for taking great pictures.

Explore something different at Badlands LGBT club with a huge dance floor, the best DJs, and various themed nights.

Go to the Melting Pot, a romantic place where you can dip strawberries in chocolate or enjoy other romantic sweets from the inventive menu. Pizza Rock is a place to go if you want a slice of a large variety of traditional and unique pizzas, with rich beer and wine offerings.

Fine wine, homemade cocktails, and diverse cuisine with Italian and French influences make dining at The Waterboy an excellent choice for couples.

Before buying airline tickets, check ESTA status. It is advised to get travel authorization first and make a reservation later. With ESTA approval, you can explore the US for up to 90 days.

Bottom line

Sacramento is a perfect blend of modern American cities, historic neighborhoods, many Park, waterfront, and numerous attractions in and around the city. Rich restaurant and nightlife scene will satisfy even the most demanding couples.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Everyone

Stockings are such a fun part of the holidays! They are perfect for getting the gift giving started, and there are so many things you can include in them for a fun gifting experience. I rounded up a few ideas to share with you to help you add a little variety to your stocking stuffing.

Samples were provided.

Ivy & Ash Nail Wraps make for a great stocking stuffer for teenage girls. These stylish wraps take the mess out of nail painting and are super affordable! Order a variety of awesome colors and prints starting at $6.

Since wearing masks is the new normal, why not add a new dimension with Maskroma sprays. All ages can appreciate this thoughtful, useful and pleasant gift. Order for about $10 and keep funky breath smells at bay.

Lip balms are the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone on your list. The holiday themed varieties from Eco Lips are about $2 a tube and will keep lips soft and smooth all winter long. 

1 Tree Mission bracelets make for a great stocking stuffer because they are stylish, can work for all ages and  for each bracelet sold, they plant a tree. They have several styles available for about $20. Order online for the perfect stocking stuffer.

Peet Bros Olive Oil Soap makes for a nice stocking stuffer that is gentle on skin and effective.Order a 3 pack for $14 and stuff a few stockings with it. Keep a bar for yourself, you will love it!

Clean Age Deodorant is a great stocking stuffer for teens. This is an effective product and helps develop healthy habits for life. Order an assortment of scents online for about $12.

Welch's Fruit Snacks are awesome for stuffing into a stocking. Made with real fruit and in adorable holiday shapes, kids of all ages will like this addition to the stocking!  Get a 5 pack for about $1 at nationwide retailers like Target.

 These holiday poppers from Hog Wild are so much fun! Kids will love popping the balls all over! Get these for the stockings for about $10 from Amazon.

Block Island Organics night cream is great for stuffing stockings! The revitalizing night cream is awesome for keeping skin healthy this winter, and all year long. Order this awesome, organic cream for about $30. 

Cuteitos have been on my must gift list for the last few years, for good reason! They are so adorable! This year, Basic Fun is rolling up a good time with Pizzaitos, these little friends are rolled up in a pizza wrapper for a deliciously fun surprise! Find at Target, Walmart or Amazon for about $10. Collect all 12 if you can!

If your kids love blind bag surprises, then get a  few Ravel Tales toys for the stockings! These are so fun, unravel the yarn to reveal not one, or two surprises, but 12! Talk about a gift that keeps on giving! Get them for about $12 from Amazon, Kohl's and other nationwide retailers.

Sign Me Up makes some really fun and funky necklaces that were practically made for stuffing into a holiday stocking! Get an assortment of options for about $25 each. You will find a few that are perfect for whomever you are gifting!

Spokester makes for a fun addition to a stocking! Clip them onto a bicycle and make the bike sound like a motorcycle! These are really fun for kids and are affordable at under $10!

A pair of specially designed socks is perfect for the holidays! Custom sock club makes getting the most one of a kind socks ever possible starting at $13 a pair. 

I hope these ideas help you stuff all of the stockings with a great assortment of goodies!

While you are here, why not check out my other holiday gift guides?

Gifts for Babies and Toddlers

 If you need a great gift for a baby or toddler this year, you are in luck! I have rounded up some excellent ideas this year for useful gifts that encourage safety, education and best of all, play! This list has a great variety included, with options for all budgets. Check out these fun gift ideas below and be sure to click thru to my partners to shop and check out all of the great items they offer. Samples have been provided for photography and inclusion.

Invidyo makes the smartest baby monitor on the market. With facial recognition and daily summary videos, this monitor doubles as a home security system. Give the gift of peace of mind for babies and parents this year for about $150.

You can't go wrong with a Green Toys gift, and this Disney Baby stacker is perfect for little ones. Not only is it durable and adorable, but it is also fun for tiny hands to stack and knock over. Find it in Mickey or Minnie styles exclusively on Amazon for $15 and under.

Bath books are awesome for a relaxing introduction to reading for little ones. This bath book set by Babybibi is awesome for an afforable holiday gift. Get the 4 pack from Amazon for about $16.

Offer little ones an introduction to music with this perfectly sized baby piano with DJ Mixer from Kiddo Lab. This fun and portable toy retails for about $25 from Amazon and will delight little musicians for hours!

Keep soft sensitive skin safe with Puttisu Safe Baby Sunscreen. This retails for about $30 and is a must have for any family that will be celebrating the holidays in the sun.

Green Toys is all about fun and learning, and this shape sorter truck makes for the perfect gift for any kid who also loves fun! This durable, sturdy truck will keep kids sorting and playing for years to come. Order from Amazon for about $25.

We all know that babies love to shake, rattle and roll, so this teethers and rattles gift set from Infantino makes for an awesome and useful gift for little ones. They will love biting and playing with this 11 piece set. Order it for about $12.

Send a friend makes for a great gift this year for the sweet kids you can't see in person. Pick a plush pal, create a message and they will do the rest. This makes for great mail to get because it is so huggable! Prices start at about $26.

The Yoee Baby Play Together Toy makes for a really engaging toy that is sure to become much loved by little ones. These are portable, adorable, and available in several animal styles. Order one for a baby on your shopping list for about $25,

A sound machine makes for an awesome baby gift because they really do help anyone, babies included, sleep better! The Alpha by LectroFan can also be used long after the newborn days. Order one for about $25.

I really love the Curious Baby Cards as a gift idea because they will come in handy for parents on the long old days of winter that are to come! These cards offer developmentally focused activities that are just plain fun! Order for $30.

I hope these ideas help you find a great gift for babies and toddlers on your shopping list this holiday season.

Why you are here why not check out some of my favorite holiday posts?