You’ve been busy. Apparently, very busy, because Christmas is nearly here, and you still need to buy gifts.
At this point, you're going to have to go to a store to be absolutely sure your gift will be under the tree on Christmas morning. Here are suggestions for great gifts you can pick up around town, either on your lunch break or on the way home.
For kids
Thanks to TableTop, celebrity geek Wil Wheaton’s web series at geekandsundry.com, board games are making a comeback. You can watch Wheaton and his celebrity friends play various board games, plus get recommendations, like these “5 education kids’ tabletop games that are actually a blast to play.” Most games featured are available at Target and Walmart.
Most kids play video games, however, and many of them are in to Animal Crossing. If there is a kid on your list who loves the game, consider stopping by Target for this Animal Crossing sweatshirt or these pajamas.
For adults
Pick up a nice bottle of wine and an aerator, which forces air to mingle with the liquid. Aerators come in a variety of styles and can be found at Target, Macy's, Williams-Sonoma and other stores.
Wine isn't your only option. Many people love a nice cup of tea. Stop by Zen Tea in Chamblee or Just Add Honey in the Historic Sweet Auburn District for loose-leaf tea, matcha tea and full-leaf tea sachets. Pair your selection with a tea kettle and teapot from Target and Walmart.
Gift cards
Gift cards can be purchased almost anywhere. If you don't want to just hand someone a card, though, you can build a gift around it. Throw a Netflix gift card, popcorn, candy and drinks in a popcorn box and wrap it up.
An iTunes gift card is good for music, books and games. Add a new iPhone case, which you most likely can get at the same store, and you have a great present.
For art lovers
Drop by the gift shop at the High Museum of Art for everything from books to socks.
The book “Artists and their Cats” explores the special bond Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo and about 50 others shared with their feline companions. " Or get the art lover on your list “American Paintings at the High Museum of Art,” featuring essays by Judy L. Larson, Donelson Hoopes and Phyllis Peet.
Maybe your gift recipients prefer to wear their art. Look for socks, scarves, ties and even face masks in a variety of styles. The museum shop is open noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday.
Absolutely last minute
If the next few days are just too busy for shopping, and you need a truly very-last-minute gift, consider an app. Yes, with your iPhone or iPad, you can gift an app. You can also send books and music through iTunes. Just excuse yourself from the room, find what you want to give, and, voila, you have a present.
With these ideas or a little imagination of your own, no one will know you waited until this week to start your shopping.
Note: The AJC may receive a commission for purchases made through some links in this article.
