When the DC were little my DM made them beautiful advent calendars that she would fill with sweets and small gifts every year. They were always amazing, thoughtful gifts, that the DC loved and played with/used. It was a much beloved family tradition.
This year has been lonely for DM, who was shielding, so the DC and I have decided to make her an advent calendar this year as a way to cheer her up and feel closer to us during the holidays, even if we can't see her.
The problem is we have run out of ideas of what to put in the tiny 7cm square drawers! She hates chocolate, doesn't wear make up or use beauty products, doesn't enjoy cooking, so no fancy little gadgets unless they are very practical. She loves gardening, reading, scented candles, baths, nicknacks, anything to do with cats and is a bit of a foodie as long as she doesn't have to cook! DM really likes it when we bring back unusual foods from travels. She's also pretty tech savvy, has an iPad, kindle, Alexa etc.
So far we have:
Marzipan cat
Small soap
L'occitane hand cream
Unusual seeds for her latest project x 3
A waxed hyacinth bulb
Bath pearls
Travel size scented candle
Jade cat
Earrings
Tile tracker
Hair mask
Perfume
A felting kit Christmas decoration
G&T alcoholic jelly
We could just put in more of the same but we really want each day to have a thoughtful gift rather than space fillers. Even better if it is something to do/make.