As someone that loves to read, I can say that I would love to receive any of these gift ideas for book lovers! Shopping for a reader? Here are some of my favorite cozy, clever, and budget-friendly gifts that any of the book lovers in your life will be ...
As someone that loves to read, I can say that I would love to receive any of these gift ideas for book lovers!
Shopping for a reader?
Here are some of my favorite cozy, clever, and budget-friendly gifts that any of the book lovers in your life will be thrilled to unwrap.
I’m a book girl myself and these are items I’d happily add to my own reading nook.
Quick tip: Pair one “cozy” item with one “bookish accessory” for a simple, thoughtful gift bundle.
Cozy Reading Essentials
Reading Pillow A supportive, lounge-style pillow that props you up just right for long chapters in bed or on the couch. Great armrests, handle for carrying, and super comfy foam fill.
The Book Seat (Pillow + Book Holder) This beanbag-style stand molds to any surface so your book (or e-reader) sits at the perfect angle—hello, hands-free reading.
Lighted Reading Glasses Built-in LEDs = personal book light without disturbing anyone else. Handy for travel and late-night page-turners.
Reading Journal (For Book Lovers) Keep a log of books read, favorite quotes, and a wish list. Includes award-winner checklists and genre recs—so satisfying to fill out.
How to Build a Thoughtful Book-Lover Gift Bundle
Pick a theme: Cozy Night In (pillow + tea + mug), On-The-Go Reader (tote + Kindle + lighted glasses), or Shelf Glow-Up (floating shelf + geode bookends).
Add something personal: A handwritten note with your favorite quote or why you chose that item.
Tuck in a treat: Tea bags, cocoa packets, or a cute bookmark.
(Prices change often, so peek before you buy—these are usually some of the most affordable options.)
More Gift Guides You’ll Love
If you’re shopping for the whole crew, check out these guides next: hosts, tech lovers, crafters, teens, and more. You can seriously knock out your list in one sitting.
We have lots more Gift Ideas for you too!
Check out the list of the best gift ideas for everyone else on your list too! You could find the perfect gift for everyone and have all of your holiday gift shopping done today.
Check out all of our Saving Dollars and Sense Gift Ideas below:
Grandparents hold such a special place in our hearts.
They’re the keepers of family stories, the best huggers, and the people who show up with wisdom, cookies, and a soft place to land. Their love is steady and unconditional and that’s worth celebrating.
If you’re shopping for a birthday, Christmas, Grandparents Day, or a just-because surprise, this guide is packed with thoughtful ideas that say “you matter to us.”
You’ll find sweet keepsakes, practical everyday favorites, cozy comforts, and fun ways to make new memories together.
Quick tip: tuck in a handwritten note or a recent photo to make any gift feel extra special.
Classic & Sentimental Gifts
Grandma and Grandpa Mug Set – Start their morning with matching mugs that remind them of how loved they are.
Ancestry DNA Kit – A meaningful, conversation-starting gift that helps grandparents explore their roots and share family history with the next generation.
Best Papa Ever Pocket Knife – A practical keepsake he’ll actually use, engraved with a sweet reminder that he’s everyone’s favorite.
Grandpa T-shirt – Soft, comfy, and proudly declares his best title—perfect for everyday wear or family photo days.
Grandparents Hat – Easy to throw on for errands or outings, with a simple message that celebrates their favorite role.
Grandparents give love in the most unconditional way.
The best gifts don’t have to be fancy, they just need heart.
Whether it’s a keepsake, something cozy, or a fun activity to enjoy together, these thoughtful ideas are sure to bring a smile and maybe even a happy tear.
We have lots more Gift Ideas for you too!
Check out the list of the best gift ideas for everyone else on your list too! You could find the perfect gift for everyone and have all of your holiday gift shopping done today.
Check out all of our Saving Dollars and Sense Gift Ideas below:
The holiday season is one of my favorite times of year.
But let’s be honest, a Christmas tree can stretch the budget when you’re trying to keep costs down.
The good news is there are lots of ways to get a tree for free or nearly free, and you can make your holiday feel special without overspending.
I remember one Christmas when our kids were little, and we just didn’t have the extra money to buy a tree that year.
We found ourselves at Home Depot on Christmas Eve and they were giving away the trees they had left. It was such a blessing, and we all enjoyed our tree so much more that year.
So, be sure to check out all of the ideas, programs and organizations below for an option to fit your needs this year.
Their mission is simple but touching: they give away fully decorated Christmas trees to families who cannot afford one. It all began in 2010 when someone gave away one tree on Craigslist and soon volunteers jumped in to help many more families.
Now they operate nationally, gathering donated trees, decorations, and funds to bring joy during the season.
To request a tree, you fill out their form (they don’t take calls) and wait for notification. They do not guarantee a tree for everyone who applies, but they help as many as they can.
If you’re in need, this is absolutely worth checking out. Even if you don’t receive one, applying gives you a backup option so you can plan your tree budget accordingly.
How You Can Qualify & What to Do
Fill out the request form for The Christmas Tree Project, be honest about your need, and wait for confirmation.
If you don’t qualify or you’re not sure about availability in your region, look into local programs (see the list below).
If you’re able, consider donating or volunteering, helping others means more trees for more families.
Start early: the number of trees is limited, so apply or register as soon as you can.
Check your local forest service or community tree farms for low-cost or free tree permits or distributions (especially helpful in Michigan).
More Ways to get a Tree FREE!!
1. Watch for Local Tree Lot Giveaways
A lot of tree lots and hardware stores (like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or local garden centers) give away unsold trees right before Christmas.
Tip: Call or stop by a few days before Christmas Eve and ask if they donate leftover trees. Many do because they’d rather bless a family than toss them out.
2. Check Facebook Marketplace or Buy Nothing Groups
People often post free trees in local groups, both real and artificial.
Sometimes it’s someone upgrading their decor or decluttering after years of storing extra trees. Search “free Christmas tree” or “tree giveaway” in Marketplace or join a Buy Nothing group in your area.
3. Ask Your Local Church or Community Center
Churches, food pantries, and community outreach programs sometimes offer Christmas assistance, which can include trees, decorations, or even gifts.
If your church doesn’t have a program, they often know which local ministries do.
4. Visit a Tree Farm Right Before They Close
Most tree farms close a few days before Christmas and still have trees left.
Ask politely if they’re giving any away, some are happy to let families take them for free to avoid extra cleanup work.
5. Contact the Local Fire Department or City Office
This one surprises people!
Some fire departments collect trees from lots or donations to distribute to families in need.
You can also ask your city or township offices if they’re aware of any community programs because they usually keep a list of holiday resources.
6. Cut Your Own (Legally!)
In many national forests, you can get a permit to cut your own Christmas tree for free or for a very small fee, sometimes free for fourth graders through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
It’s an adventure and a fun memory-maker if you like being outdoors.
7. Ask at Local Schools or Scouts Programs
Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and school fundraisers sometimes sell trees. When the season winds down, they often donate leftovers to families in need, you just have to ask.
8. Think Outside the Box
If you can’t find a tree this year, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can:
Make a “book tree” by stacking books and wrapping them in string lights.
Use a potted houseplant or a large branch in a vase decorated with lights and ornaments.
Build a DIY tree shape on your wall with garland, ribbon, or lights. It’s free if you already have decorations on hand.
If you’re hoping to save money this season, starting with one of these ideas can really help.
A Christmas tree doesn’t have to mean stress on your budget. Use the free or low-cost options as your first stop.
Planning Thanksgiving on a budget? ALDI’s 2025 Thanksgiving dinner makes it possible to feed 10 people for about $40.
Below you’ll find my updated ALDI Thanksgiving shopping list plus the newest price details available from October 15 to December 24, 2025, so you can keep your holiday simple and affordable.
ALDI Thanksgiving Dinner Shopping List
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is all about family, food, and time to count our blessings. The cost of a big meal can add up, so I look for smart ways to save without losing the joy of the day.
I choose ALDI because the prices are low, the stores are easy to shop, and I can get everything in one trip.
What’s New at ALDI for 2025
ALDIannounced a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people for $40 total, which works out to about $4 per person.
The basket includes a 14 pound turkeyand the ingredients for classic sides and dessert, like rolls, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, and pumpkin pie. Items are marked in store, and there are no coupons or memberships required.
The pricing is available October 15 through December 24, 2025. You can shop in store, use curbside pickup, or order delivery with partners.
My ALDI Thanksgiving Menu Plan
Here is a simple menu that covers the classics. You can scale it up or down based on your guest count.
Turkey
Stuffing
Mashed potatoes and gravy
Deviled eggs
Green bean casserole
Sweet potato casserole
Rolls
Pumpkin pie
Pumpkin cheesecake
Baked beans
The Shopping List
Use this list as a guide while you shop. Adjust quantities to fit your family.
Main dishes and sides
Turkey
Potatoes
Milk
Butter
Turkey gravy
Bread or rolls
Celery
Sausage
Chicken broth
Yams or sweet potatoes
Pecans
Frozen green beans
Desserts and extras
Canned pumpkin
Evaporated milk
Pie shells
Baked beans
Eggs
Cottage cheese
Applesauce
Cranberry sauce
Pumpkin pie cheesecake
Tips To Save Even More
Plan your servings so you do not overbuy.
Choose store brands for pantry items like broth, gravy mix, stuffing, and pie crusts.
Buy produce in the bag when it makes sense. A 10 pound bag of russet potatoes often costs less per pound than loose potatoes.
Make one or two desserts well instead of many small ones.
Why ALDI Works For Thanksgiving
Prices have gone up on many groceries this year, so real savings matter. ALDI keeps it simple with low prices, a clear layout, and quality store brands.
Their 2025 Thanksgiving pricing makes a full holiday meal more affordable for families, and the item list covers the favorites most of us expect on the table.
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a few tried-and-true kitchen remedies you turn to when the sniffles hit or that annoying tickle in your throat just won’t quit.
One of my absolute favorites is this Homemade Cough Syrup with Honey.
It’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and it’s a cozy little jar of comfort when you need it most.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy tools or special skills to pull this off.
If you can slice, pour, and stir, you’re good to go.
Why You’ll Love This Cough Honey
It’s simple and natural: Just a handful of real-food ingredients and no complicated steps.
It tastes amazing: Sweet, zesty, and slightly spicy from the ginger.
It’s versatile: Add a spoonful to a warm cup of tea or enjoy a small spoonful straight from the jar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started:
Honey – The star of the show. Choose raw, local honey if possible for the best flavor.
Red Onion – Adds depth and richness to the mixture.
Ginger – Fresh ginger brings a warm, comforting kick.
Lemon – Brightens everything up with a touch of citrus.
Glass Container – A small jar with a lid works perfectly.
How to Make Cough Syrup
Follow these easy steps to create your homemade jar of goodness:
Step 1: Slice your ingredients. Cut the ginger, red onion, and lemon into thin slices.
You don’t need to peel them if you don’t want to, the peels can stay on.
Step 2: Layer in the jar. In a clean glass jar, layer the onion, ginger, and lemon until the jar is about three-quarters full.
Step 3: Add the honey. Slowly pour honey over the top until everything is completely covered.
Take your time so it can seep down through the layers.
Use a knife or chopstick to gently release any air bubbles hiding in the jar.
Step 4: Seal and let it sit. Put the lid on the jar and let it rest on your counter.
Each day, open it up and give it a little stir.
Step 5: Strain and store. After about three days, you’ll notice the honey has become more liquid as it absorbs all that delicious flavor.
Strain out the solids and store your finished honey in the fridge.
How to Use Homemade Cough Syrup
There’s no wrong way to enjoy this soothing homemade honey.
Try adding a spoonful to a warm cup of tea, stirring it into hot water with lemon, or simply taking a spoonful when you want a little comfort.
It’s a wonderful kitchen staple to keep on hand during chilly months, and it makes a thoughtful little homemade gift too.
Whether you’re prepping for cold weather or just love having natural remedies ready to go, this cough honey is one of those simple recipes that proves the best solutions are often the easiest ones.
Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite in so many homes.
