HELP! Gift Dilemma for Mum

[MamainWonderland]

I need some wise Mumsnetter help finding some small Christmas gifts for my mum (in her 70s). My dad died some years ago and she lives alone, so travels to spend every Christmas with us (we have children with SEND who don't travel, so this works well). I don't have any siblings.

She is rather difficult to buy for, so in desperation this year, I have bought her tickets to a show (approved by her), so that she and I can have a nice trip out on Christmas Eve. These were fairly expensive and ate a chunk of my budget. I'm firmly of the belief that experiences are much more valuable than things at most ages anyway, but the problem lies on Christmas morning. Because she is widowed and has a very small family, it is likely that she won't have anything other than what we give her to open on Christmas morning. I've spent a chunk of the budget on the show tickets, but I really need some ideas for small, cost-effective gifts for her to unwrap on Christmas morning.

Now here lies the problem: she doesn't wear make up or use skincare/haircare, she can't wear jewellery (allergies) and is currently dieting so has requested no sweets. I'll find a thriller paperback, but otherwise I am TOTALLY STUMPED. What on earth do I buy? She isn't a candle/diffuser type of person either. In her younger years she probably would have preferred a screwdriver set honestly 😂, but she has a variety of health conditions that keep her fairly sedentary. PLEASE HELP WISE ELVES OF MUMSNET!

Actually someone recommended a hamper up thread. I’ve become obsessed with ‘bur’ baskets on Instagram. I wish someone would put one together for me! Basically you get a nice festive looking basket (B&M and Home Bargains have some great ones) and then fill with some of the persons favourite things. I’d think along the lines of nice socks, a cosy blanket or hot water bottle, little box of chocs (if she’s on a diet), something sentimental like the photo book, a nice hand cream.. they just look so lovely

Bookmark, new phone case, nice pens, notebook or list pad. Sostrene Grene is always worth a look if you have one near you.

My mum is similar and so hard to buy for as she doesn't want anything. She always loves her photo calendar of the kids though. Other ideas - microwave waterbottle , photo cushion, solar flower lights for garden, hat & gloves, a nice mug/cup, warm socks, photo glasses cleaner cloth, small radio to keep her company, magazine subscription?

I am slightly younger than your Mum but if it was me I would like

Cashmere gloves
Cashmere bed socks - Woolovers do nice ones and they have been on my Christmas list for years and I still haven't got them🙁
A lovely and expensive note book
Jigsaw
Nice soap, preferably L'Occitane
Earrings, can't have too many earrings
Miniature bottle of fancy gin - or whatever your Mum drinks
Subscription that delivers a monthly bouquet
Tickets to a band I love
Voucher for afternoon tea somewhere swanky
Lovely new socks
Books

Things I don't want
Skincare or makeup
Slippers
Phone case
Glasses case
Plants
Photographs or photo frames
Garden centre vouchers
Hot water bottles or heated throws
Tea/coffee/hot chocolate
Ornaments
Scented candles, apart from one expensive brand I love

But that's just me!

Dear Sis (not that I knew I had one!) but our mums could be twins or similar! It is so tricky. Mine had a BIG birthday earlier this year so I went all out on their particular hobby. So that makes Xmas tricky. I have bought an inexpensive jam advent calendar, which I hope we will get to her before 1st Dec. Then i have done something quite odd , she hates Xmas, won't get a tree out etc. I have bought posh baubles, already have a mini tree in the loft and will give her a decorated tree. She is not that mobile so a pre decorated tree might be fine. I am hoping to be away over Xmas and the DC will be elsewhere so this might do. Other family members might be there.

I’d love some fur lined crocks, must put them on my list! I often get asked what I would like by my sister and two children, so many good ideas on here. I also like the Book Nook craft kit, I do a lot of crafting but I’m wondering if I might struggle with the small pieces as I have arthritis in my hands.

Some cosy Xmas themed socks , a small paper wrapped soap bar , paperback book , notelets or journal .

I’ve just bought myself some fur lined crocs and they are gorgeous , go for it you won’t be disappointed.