I finally connected with the winner of the $600 Sears shopping challenge yesterday, a long time reader named Susan who lives in Vermont. I asked her what was on her list and and we need your help! Susan has barely started her shopping and needs ideas for presents.
Here is what she has so far:
Husband – Susan is at a loss but is considering some kind of electronic gadget because her guy is a techie. What would you buy him?
Son – Susan’s 9-year-old needs pj’s and enjoys playing soccer and basketball. He likes video games and shares a Nintendo DSi with his older sister.
Daughter – Susan’s 11-year-old also needs pj’s, and likes art activities and video games. The family has an Xbox so a new game might be a great gift. Does Sears sell Xbox games and accessories?
Sister – Her sister is easy to shop for because she likes jewelry and clothing.
Brother – No ideas yet.
Niece – Susan wants to buy a toy and outfit for her 6-year-old niece.
Retired grandparents – They love cooking and gardening, so I’m not worried about finding them something at Sears. Perhaps a new small appliance, pots/pans, or cookbook?
Second grandparents – No ideas yet.
Susan and I are going to meet at a Sears in Massachussets in the next few days. The challenge is to buy gifts for Susan’s immediate family – but she hopes to cross almost everyone off her list! I’ll be catching Susan’s shopping spree on a flip camera (both the gift card and flip camera were donated by Sears) and hope to share how Susan spends her $600 gift card soon!
On a more personal note, I’m almost half way done with my Christmas shopping. How much more holiday shopping do you have?
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
Since Susan’s family members probably know about her big win, she should ask each gift recipient what 3 things would top their wish lists. That way, she can choose something appropriate for each. It’s better to get something that’s wanted, than to have the recipient go through the hassle of having to return something unwanted or unneeded. I’m sure everyone will appreciate the forethought, and will enjoy being a “part” of the shopping spree.
Whatever Susan decides, it’s wonderful that she can splurge in a big way, without having to break the family bank!
@EllieD Great ideas – thanks!
For the 6-year-old niece — Sears has a “Dolly and me” dolls (like the much more expensive American Girl “Just like me”). Then, they have matching outfits for both the girl and the doll (for less than what AG charges for doll clothes). The doll is much more durable than the AG doll, and therefore suitable for a 6-year-old.
I like what EllieD said, but the first thing that came to my head for hubby was a GPS, if they don’t have one already.