Top 8 Christmas Gifts for Your Boss

It's that time of year again when you fret about what to get your boss. I've worked on hundreds of boss gifts over the year for my clients. I've decided to compile a list of my Top 20 gift ideas you can gift to your boss. From high end gifts to the unique.

1.Coravin Wine Preservation Model 100015 $199.95

This luxurious gift is a must-have for any wine lover. This nifty gadget allows users to open a bottle of wine without spoiling its contents and reseal the bottle for later use. User-friendly wine system keeps your wine safe from oxidation, allowing it to continue to age naturally. Non-coring, faster pouring needle allows access to wine without cork damage, allowing it to reseal and continue protecting the wine. The Coravin comes in three different colors: cobalt blue, white and grey.

Coravin 100015 Model $199.95

2. Amener Business Power Bank Kit $63.39

This is a must have for the traveling boss. This power bank kit includes everything the on-the-go boss needs to recharge all of their gadgets. 2 USB ports allow you to charge your two devices simultaneously. Real 10000mAh capacity, Input: 5V/1A, 10000mAh capacity charger is more than enough for all day trip. A wireless optical mouse, 3-in-1 USB charging cable, Converter (USB Type-C input into Micro USB), 32 GB flash drive, and a touch-screen pen stylus. 

Amener Business power Bank Kit

3. Victure 4K Waterproof Action Camera $69.99

For the action and adventure boss, you can't go wrong with this gift. The Victure Action Camera is perfect for the on-the-go boss who likes traveling and adventure. This action camera features pleasing 4K/2.7k/1080p/720P video with 16 MP stills, 2 inch screen and 170°wide angle lens, can vividly record your precious memories or adventures. With a built-in Wifi & HDMI, the Victure Waterproof Camera is compatible with IOS and Android system. Download the iSmart DV app to your phone or tablet, you can view real time streaming via the app and easily edit videos for posting online. This is a great gift for a reasonable price! 

Victure 4K Waterproof Action Camera

4. Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones $349.99

In the day of age of electronic gadgets, having a good pair of wireless headphones is a must. The quality of Bose is unbeatable, and the Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones are a great gift for the entertainment-minded boss. Three levels of world-class noise cancellation for better listening experience in any environment. Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more. Balanced audio performance at any volume. Hassle-free Bluetooth pairing, personalized settings, access to future updates, and more through the Bose Connect app. Basically, if you get your boss these headphones, you're awesome.

Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones

5. Philips Somneo Sleep & Wake-up Therapy Light $199.99

Okay, who doesn't need better sleep? Especially the boss-man or boss-woman. This gift is a new gadget that's getting a lot of street credit for helping people sleep better. This light therapy lamp and sunrise alarm clock  are clinically proven to improve your energy, sleep and well-being. Fall asleep with new RelaxBreathe function, and wake up naturally with colored sunrise. And, let's face it, a well-rested boss is a nicer boss. Great gift idea! 

Philips Somneo Sleep & Wake-up Therapy Light

6. Dymo Label Maker $79.99

For the type-A boss, this is a great gift to help them stay organized. This little helper is a unique gift for the super-organized boss. The features are awesome on this little Dymo Label Maker. Thermal printing technology eliminates the need for expensive ink or toner. Windows only requires scanner with document feeder. Customize and print address, file folder and barcode labels, plus name badges and more with DYMO Label software – all from your PC or Mac. Save time - create labels directly from text in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, QuickBooks and other programs or easily print addresses from Outlook Contacts or Mac Address Book. 

Dymo Label Maker

7. Bose Home Speaker $399.00

 For the boss who loves music and great sound, this gift is perfect! This Bose Home Speaker is full of tons of extras.  Wall-to-wall stereo sound from a single speaker, Built in Alexa plays millions of songs at the tip of your tongue. Play integrated Wi-Fi music services like Spotify and Amazon Music, or connect over Bluetooth to play anything from your phone or tablet. Experience superior voice pickup from a custom-designed eight-microphone array that hears you over loud music or across the room. This is a must have gift! 

Bose Home Speaker

8. InstaShiatsu Foot Massager $199.00 

Who doesn't want a good foot massage at the end of the day? Heck, how about right at work! You can't go wrong with this gift which is featured on one of Oprah's Gifts of 2018. The InstaShiatsu Foot Massager is the perfect gift for any boss. Choose from 3 intensity's, heat, air pressure & the massage mode.That's right, it heats up! And, again, a happy boss makes for a happy day at work. 

InstaShiatsu Foot Massager

About the Author...
Carol Sue Stuart is a blogger, author, poet and marketing adviser. Based in Arizona, Carol lives with her husband, three children, and two precious doggies. When she isn't writing, blogging, traveling, or getting into mischief, you can find her snuggled with a book and a plate of chocolate chip cookies. You can follow her on Instagram @TheMoonlightBella.

Amazon Associates Discloure

Carol Stuart is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Top 8 Christmas Gifts for Your Boss

November 20, 2018

Why I Love My Weighted Blanket

I'm going to be very transparent here. I thought this weighted blanket phenomena was a mixed bags of good marketing and the placebo effect. I'm not always so skeptical, but believing that a weighted blanket can magically reduce the effects of anxiety, insomnia, symptoms of auto immune disorders, and more. Well, let's just say, I wasn't buying it.

Until last month.

I personally suffer from relentless insomnia, anxiety, and a awful disorder called IC (Interstitial Cystitis). None of which are fun, as you can guess. Then last month I had an awful flare up of my IC, which causes anxiety, which then snowballs into uncontrollable insomnia. Oh, the fun. I hadn't slept in almost 24 hours. I panicked. Literally.

Not wanting to wake up my husband, I went to the living room and watched television at 5 am. I simultaneously was on my iPhone (of course), looking for answers. Ugh. It was then I found a mention of the weighted blanket's success in helping some people with insomnia and various issues. I bolted up and researched for a few hours. After reading tons of reviews online, I settled on my purchase. The Buzio Weighted Blanket (Amazon $89). Some of the weighted blankets online were pricey and others seemed cheap. I felt confident in my research.

The blanket couldn't get to my house soon enough. As soon as it arrived, I opened the box and pulled it out. Slight exaggeration. It's actually quite heavy (I got the 20 lb, grey blanket). My husband had to help me. I put it on my bed and got under it. It felt amazing. People often describe weighted blankets as feeling like a hug, and I'd have to agree. My husband got under it and immediately said he wanted one.

Day 1

I hadn't fallen asleep earlier than 4 am in the previous weeks so I wanted to see how the new blanket weathered. After the first ten minutes of being under the blanket, I got uncomfortable. I wasn't used to the weight. But, I wasn't going to give up. Instead I put the blanket around my knees and below. Surprisingly, a few hours into sleeping, I pulled the blanket up to my waist and fell asleep at 3:30 am. Okay, so not a huge difference. But I wasn't giving up.

Day 2

Learning from the lessons of Day 1, I started the night off using the blanket just on my waist and lower. I dimmed my lights and waited for the crippling struggle of trying to fall asleep happen. Yet it never happened. For some reason I was able to fall asleep by 2 am. I actually don't remember falling asleep that early in a long time.

Day 3

I decided to try and go for it. I put the entire blanket over my body and slept on my back which is not my usual position. Wow. I was surprised how cold I felt under the blanket. I honestly thought I'd get hot because I live in Arizona, but the blanket kept me cool. And, drum roll please, I fell asleep before 1 am. This is crazy!

Day 4-6

Same results as Day 3. Sleeping well under the blanket. An added bonus was how deep I was sleeping. I don't know why. My husband even said I started snoring. Go figure. For the first time, in a long time, I was getting good sleep.

Day 7 

One week in and I'm in love with my Buzio Weighted Blanket. An odd side effect happened with the blanket, my IC symptoms at night diminished to almost nothing. I don't know why. I didn't even expect that to happen. Also, I started to lose weight. I lost 5 lbs in the first week. My nurse friend said it's probably because my body is finally able to fall asleep and can repair and restore itself. I agree with her.

My Final Analysis & The Science Behind WB's

I've had my Buzio Weighted Blanket for a little over a month and it has changed my life. I still have some nights when I struggle, but I'm actually okay with those odd nights now. They are the exception not the rule. I didn't expect perfection from my weighted blanket, but I had no idea that I could find so much pleasure in going to bed. The struggle isn't entirely gone, but it is now manageable.

The actual science behind weighted blankets is called DTP, or Deep Touch Pressure. It basically means the body responds positively to gentle, deep pressure. DTP increases activity in the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system. Lots of big words that basically mean, there is science behind the use of weighted blankets for individual who suffer from insomnia, anxiety, auto immune disorders, and it has been widely used to work with children with autism, people with pain, developmental disabilities, dementia, and more. The pressure from the weighted blanket relaxes the nervous system, evoking the feeling of a warm hug, which also releases serotonin. For more science you can read here, and here, and here.

  

Last Minute Tips

* Do your research before you buy a blanket. With most things, there is a lot of hype behind brands (which means more money). Some blankets can cost as much as $500. I love my Buzio Weighted Blanket and for the price, it's a great deal!

* Don't give up on your blanket. Give yourself time to get used to it.

* Don't expect miracles right away, but do expect to see some progress.

* Make sure to get the right weight. Most of the companies online have a guideline for you based on your weight. I personally use a 20 lb blanket.

Hope this review helps you find the rest and relaxation you need!

**Six Month Update** I'm still loving this blanket! It has helped tremendously with my sleep and anxiety.  I've had at least ten friends purchase the Buzio Weighted Blanket because of my recommendation and you can't beat the price and quality. I opened the Sunday advertisements and noticed some big store brands are now carrying weighted blankets, but not the same quality. Plus, you can't beat Amazon delivering it to your front door. Click on the link below to go to the exact blanket I purchased. 


About the Author...
Carol Sue Stuart is a blogger, author, poet and marketing adviser. Based in Arizona, Carol lives with her husband, three children, and two precious doggies. When she isn't writing, blogging, traveling, or getting into mischief, you can find her snuggled with a book and a plate of chocolate chip cookies. You can follow her on Instagram @TheMoonlightBella.

 

Amazon Associates Discloure

Carol Stuart is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Why I Love My Weighted Blanket

May 27, 2018

12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Boss

Trying to find the perfect gift for your boss? This year we wanted to be a little extra (and show him how awesome he is!) so we concocted a plan to celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas for him. 

Here's how it works: 12 random gifts are left on his desk (anonymously) from his elves. Hint: You can do all 12 days in a row, double up gifts, or space them out.

We kicked off the event with a gift and a card explaining the rules to him.

Then, we started Day #1 with his first gift--Star Wars Socks! :)

I'm not going to write any of the other gifts because we are still in the process of leaving them, but let me give you some great ideas below:

* Favorite Candy Bar
* $5 Gift Card for Starbucks or Jamba Juice
* Socks
* Homemade Treat
* Gag gifts
* Stocking w/candy
* Book
* Ornament
* Favorite Soda
* Cookies
* Toothbrush
* Razor
* Deodorant
* Mugs

You can even take this one step further and make it a themed 12 Days of Christmas! You could do a Star Wars theme, 80's theme, Grumpy Cat theme, Meme theme, the list could go on and on. Make this your own and have fun with it. I know we are having fun leaving gifts for our boss. It's a small way to show gratitude for one great boss!

12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Boss

December 4, 2017

Why Everyone Needs a Lunch Like This - Postino Wine Cafe

[Postino Wine Cafe - Gilbert, Arizona] The Butcher's Block is a must-order. An assortment of artisan meats and cheeses served with smoked almond hummus, asparagus, olives, nuts and crostini--you'll be ordering seconds.

[Postino Wine Cafe - Gilbert, Arizona] I'm a huge appetizer fan and this one takes the bank. The Pub Board is a decedent combination of soft pretzels, Schreiner's Chorizo, Cornichons, aged cheddar and giant Spanish corn nuts. Delicious!

[Postino Wine Cafe - Gilbert, Arizona] Ahhh...my favorite non-alcoholic beverage. Cucumber Honey Lemonade. It's a delicious mocktail option. Love it. It's refreshing and not too sweet.

[Postino Wine Cafe - Gilbert, Arizona] You can't beat this view of Downtown Gilbert's Heritage District. In the cooler months, you get panoramic views of downtown life. It's the perfect spot to people watch, catch up with friends, or set out on a romantic night.

[Postino Wine Cafe -  Gilbert, Arizona] My favorite dish is their Bruschetta. It's a smoking good deal for $15. You select 4 different slices from their delicious assortment. Some of their Bruschetta selections are: Brie & Apples with Fig Spread, Fresh Mozzarella with Tomato & Basil (pictured above), Smoked Salmon with Pesto (pictured above), roasted Peppers with Goat Cheese.

[Postino Wine Cafe - Gilbert, Arizona] Lunch Happy Hour is $20 bottles of wine. For those of you who love a great glass of wine and an awesome deal--head over to Postino Wine Cafe in Gilbert, Arizona.

Happy Birthday Chantel! My favorite thing to do is celebrate other people, especially their birthdays. This sweet gal has been working with me for the past three years and she's such a treasure. Always smiling and in a good mood. I've never heard her complain once.

Why Everyone Needs a Lunch Like This - Postino Wine Cafe

August 23, 2017

Journal Writing: Cheaper than Therapy

A girl's best friend is diamonds, so the famous cliché says. But I'd have to say for me, it's my journal. Don't get me wrong. I'd never deny myself a diamond, or shoes, or clothes. But, journal writing helps me focus on the important things in life, instead of, let's say the new Fall boots from Nordstroms.

1. Easy

It takes zero brain cells to write in a journal. You don't have to be creative or witty. Just be you. Write what you are feeling, thinking about, or write about the annoying lady who always calls you "Cupcake." Write about whatever you want. Just make the time to journal every day. A few years ago several people started a journal where they wrote down what they were grateful for, try that. I often write what is on my mind, my goals, my dreams, what I want to eat, what makes me happy (or sad), what I wish I could do better, or what I think I'm doing right. This is ground zero for you. Write whatever YOU want.

2. Cheap

It takes a journal and a pen. Cheap items you can find at the dollar store. My current journal is from the bargain bin at Tuesday Morning and it cost me less than $3. You don't need any fancy machinery, electricity, monthly dues; just put your pen to paper and write.

3. Cleansing and Healing

If I can't sleep, I journal. If I'm upset or frustrated with life (or people), I journal about it. If I want to scream and holler at someone, I write it all out. It helps me to cleanse my soul of impurities. It stops me from any type of rage or over-the-top-ideas I might have and helps me to be rational and calm. Studies show journaling helps raise healthy immune cells, reduces the symptoms of arthritis and asthma, and even helps us come to terms with problems by accessing our analytical brain.

 

4. Creativity

Hello, Creatives! Journaling should be a MUST for your creative life. From artist to writer, from musician to doodler, journaling helps to access the creativity energy pent up inside of you. Use it to free your imagination in writing or to access the emotions you need to compose a new song, or paint the picture you've  envisioned. Journals have been used by all of the great artists, musicians, and writers in the past, so, by default, you should using this awesome technique as well.

As for me...

Journaling has helped me deal with some tough, deep issue. Sure, I've used it for my creativity and it's actually crucial for my writing. But, I've also used it when life dealt me some heavy blows, or a fight happened with someone I loved, or I was confused by a situation. I've always ended up in a better place due to journaling.

So, get started! You  might be surprised how much it helps.

Journal Writing: Cheaper than Therapy

February 18, 2017

Toxic Day; Go Away!

I hate bad days. I know we all have them, but, really, some of them just suck. Here are a few ideas to get through those sneaky little bad days:

1. Laugh

I put on Pandora and pop on my comedian of choice (FYI: Dane Cooke and Jim Gaffigan). How can you continue to have a bad day when you are laughing? Really. It is my number one go-to when I'm having a rough patch at work or home. If you don't know about Pandora, it is a free streaming app (for both desktop and phone) that allows you to stream music (and comedians) for free.

2. Drink

No, not that kind of drink, although, I'm sure many of you have had those kind of days. I'm talking about having a comfort drink on hand. My choice is always hot cocoa. But, I do have herbal teas and even my favorite soda, on hand at work. Sometimes I need to take a mini-drink-break. If you have the kind of schedule that allows for you to dive out for a moment to go to Starbucks or Jamba Juice, take that time to rejuvenate and hydrate.

 

3. Pray or Meditate

Prayer should've been number one. I pray throughout the day to God. Little things. Big things. But, when I'm having an intense moment, I duck out to the bathroom or my car, and say a prayer. Meditation is huge for me as well. Sit at your desk and breath in for the count of seven, hold for four, and breath out for eight. Repeat ten times. I use this technique, hourly.

4. Walk

Get moving. Get out of the office or house and go for a walk. There is nothing better for you than getting your blood pumping and clearing your head. In Arizona I have the advantage of beautiful weather almost year-round, but for you folks in colder climates, I'd suggest just getting out of the office and walk. Anywhere. Even if it's just climbing the stairs.

Bad days come. Good news, they don't last forever. Try these four tips and see how they work.

Toxic Day; Go Away!

October 4, 2016

Your Power Hour: Morning Rituals with Results

 

Power Hour Friday

The greatest minds in the world give themselves one hour each morning, to help focus on their talents, gifts, creativity, and more. It is deemed the Hour of Power by many. I live by this belief system because I've seen it work in my own life. Every Friday I have christened my blog post as the "Power Hour Friday." Enjoy these creative ideas from some of the greatest minds.

MEDITATION

You've read about it. You've seen it. You're best friend is doing it. No, I'm not talking about the yoga pants debate, I'm talking about meditation. It's a life saver, energy creator, and creativity inducing practice.

No fancy books needed. No crazy equipment. Just you, your body, and breathing. I'm a little bit of a late bloomer to meditation. I started ten years ago and it transformed the way I handled my full blown anxiety attacks (Yes, I get them and they suck). I'm a better friend, mother, business woman, wife, and neighbor--all because of meditation.

I want to focus on guided meditations in this post. My favorite guy (ever!) for meditation is Jason Stephenson. He's kind of the bomb of guided meditations. I found him one day when I Googled "Anxiety attack meditation" and he up popped his YouTube channel. Love him. You can find the link to his YouTube Page HERE I found his Australian voice charming, soothing, and comforting--triple threat kind of guy. I immediately liked his work and so did my husband, Chris. We both use his meditations for a variety of things like insomnia, anxiety, peace, concentration, creativity, and just relaxing. I pop on my headphones, put on one of his YouTube videos and I'm set for the day.

Meditation. Try it. It works.

Your Power Hour: Morning Rituals with Results

September 23, 2016

The Healing Properties of Cookies

Yes, I know, there is an essential oil for everything. Toothaches. Bellyaches. Acne. Dandruff. I get it. And, yes, I know the amazing health benefits of fruits and veggies. But, did YOU know there are healing properties in cookies? Let me list them for you (Warning: There is absolutely NO medical literature to back up what I'm saying).

1. Heartbreak

Nothing quite heals a broken heart like a plate of cookies. You can drown your loss with a cup of a milk and--VIOLA!--heartbreak gone. Add a few friends into the mix and then the combined sugar high and laughter will compound into a beautiful mixture of the I-don't-give-a-(enter your preferred curse word) attitude. Problem solved. Repeat as many times, if necessary.

2. Work Problems

Co-worker causing drama. Boss being a freak. Customers acting insane. Project raising your blood pressure. Sales down. Cookies will help like you'd never suspect. Grab a delicious cookie (or two, or fifteen) and a cup of Joe; problem solved. My favorite thing to do is to sit in my car and just dream while I chomp--another job, another life, stabbing the client in the ear, you get my drift. Use this prescription with caution or could result in large rear-end (notice my face is the only thing in the picture).

3. Family Drama

Ugh. Principal called. Kids failing. Husband working late. Sister/Brother being a brat. Aunt gossiping. Grandpa fell, again. My diagnosis--cookie time. These call for special cookies. I often suggest you treat yourself to a local (and delicious) bakery for these moments. No need to bake or shop. Just drop in and eat. My favorite place in Arizona is called Sweet Cakes (Yum!) and thank goodness it's a 40 minute drive from my house.

4. Peace

How do cookies promote peace, you ask? It is National Peace Day today, so I thought I'd add my cookie-saves-the-day theory to this often debated question. Here is my simple answer: Have you ever been mad at anyone who dropped off cookies to you? Have you? No. I've had people I hate drop off cookies to me, and then, suddenly, like magic *POOF* I like them again. See...Peace.

Wow, cookies really are amazing.

The Healing Properties of Cookies

September 21, 2016

3 Marketing Tips for Your Business (and less stress for you!)

We've all heard it before. The seductive calls from the siren of "Working From Home" on the shores of "I hate my job." But, not many take the plunge.  And the ones who do take the risk are struggling. WHY IS THIS?

Since I'm a successful business woman I get cornered at EVERY event I attend from someone who is trying to run an MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) business or they are trying to launch onto the internet with a business idea or product, and they all ask me the same question: "WHY AM I NOT MAKING MONEY?"

The answer is not the same for everyone. But, it typically falls on the doorstep of Marketing 101 or lack of proper execution. Here are some basic pointers on how to revamp your business marketing plan.

1. Think Outside of the Box

I preach this over and over and over again, but I still feel like no one is listening to me. I promise, it works. You've got to reach outside of the norm of what everyone else is doing. Where is your service or product needed? Who is your ideal candidate or consumer? Create a wish list of ideal customers then decide where they meet. THIS IS EASY! Now, go market in those areas. For example, if you are selling   Christian Jewelry pieces then you should be selling at every local boutique and you should contact the local pastors/preachers in your area and discuss options for them to use your pieces as a fundraising event where they possibly get a portion of the sales (win-win scenario). Or how about the church bookstore? Or, maybe you could sponsor the woman's group? You see, the potential to think outside of the box is endless. Now, get moving and make that wish list!

2. Get the Proper Training (yes, pay for it!) 

There are so many AWESOME training videos available online through reputable people. I just read an article this morning about a young woman who made 1.2 million dollars in her first year of her online business. That amount of money sounds nice about now, wouldn't you agree? But, she credits her success to the hours and hours she invested in online training videos and seminars. Listen, there is an old adage that says, "You've got to spend money to make money" and in this instance that's true. Take a course and watch it over and over again. Really apply the principles it teaches you. I've found online courses that run as low as $40! You can't beat that. So, you skip a date out with your hubby. I promise, it's worth the money.

3. Podcasts are for the Pro's

Now that I've lectured you on paying for help, now I'm going to lead you to a FREE SOURCE of knowledge and inspiration. Podcasts. If you aren't listening and subscribing to speakers in your field, you are behind! Get moving. Take your business serious by listening to a podcast that will increase your business knowledge. These are FREE. And, everyone loves free, right?

Okay, so it's time to get moving with your business. These were just three tips to get you busting a move on your biz. Remember, Rome wasn't build in a day, but, darn, in this day and age you can make a fantastic living running your own business. Stay tuned for more AWESOME MARKETING TIPS from me and a soon to be launched MASTERMIND of MARKETING SUCCESS GROUP!

Good luck and God Bless!

3 Marketing Tips for Your Business (and less stress for you!)

September 19, 2015