BUSNA’S 2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Tis the season for gifting, and Birdshot Uveitis Society of North America has great gift ideas for the birdies in your life!
Let’s start with a few personal items. Many birdies would appreciate a pair of polarized or clip-on sunglasses. They can reduce glare in various conditions, whether while driving or even inside a box store. Otherwise, a pair of blue light, progressives or readers might make a perfect gift.
Getting a good night’s sleep can be a challenge. Why not gift them with a sleep mask? Whether it’s padded, weighted, warmed, cooled, scented or strapped, it’s a luxury that will likely be much appreciated. They might even help your favorite birdie feel like they’re at the spa!
You could always surprise them with the gift of a membership to their local fitness club. Many clubs have great deals at the start of the year!
And what birdie doesn’t enjoy a cozy blanket and a good book? An e-reader device or an audible reader subscription could provide hours of relaxation. Add in a water bottle that could keep them hydrated as they read!
How about a jewelry item? Or even one featuring a bird? Etsy has many lovely options available.
You could always consider giving something for the home. After all, we spend most of our time there!
Houseplants promote rest and relaxation. We consulted with the American Kennel Club to find plants that are also safe for pets. A Monkey Tree is a good choice for somebody with allergies or asthma. Ponytail Palm are especially easy to care for. And all plants, including the elegant Moth Orchid, help purify the air in any room!
Diffusers and other aromatherapy products can add to the ambiance in our homes, but again, consider pet-safe options. The Westminster Kennel Club tells us that Sunshine in a Bottle™ is terrific for “rejuvenating the mind and spirit”. Essential oils of lemon, lavender, tangerine, grapefruit, frankincense, copaiba and orange are other safe choices. Enjoy!
One item for the home that could brighten up a dark closet or dimly-lit countertop area is a battery operated stick-on puck light. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and some are even motion-activated! Items such as these can make a difference in our daily tasks.
Every day we learn more about the benefits of eating well, and there are so many fabulous AND healthy options. Where do we begin?
If your gift recipient likes to cook, consider a cookbook that features anti-inflammatory recipes. We are so fortunate to have dozens of excellent choices available at almost any bookstore!
Chances are that gluten-free and/or whole-grain baked goods or homemade soup would also be appreciated by anyone on your gift list.
Who doesn’t like the gift of chocolate? Some brands are vegan or organic and there might even be a company in your local area that has excellent product. Another option could be alcohol-free wine or cocktails? (As you may know, consumption of alcohol-based beverages is discouraged with certain medications.)
A gift subscription to a specialty food company is always a popular choice. Or perhaps you know of a local farm that has gift certificates or monthly deliveries!
Additional ideas can be found on BUSNA’s 2021 blog post, 10 Gift Ideas for Birdies. And if you’re still stumped, BUSNA welcomes any donations and would be happy to honor your special someone!
However you gift your loved one, BUSNA would like to wish you safe travels and a joyous holiday season. And may 2025 bring people everywhere an abundance of peace and love!