2019 CLJ Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Empty-Nesters

Ah, Empty-Nesters. Mom and Dad. Grandma and Grandpa. They're famously tough to shop for, and yet — it seems they need so many new things! (How old is dad's robe? When's the last time mom updated her luggage?) Show them all of the love this Christmas with gifts that will make them feel so seen and special. Embrace their hobbies (bird-watching), and introduce them to something new (cornhole). Or, upgrade their favorite things! Watch dad's eyes light up at a shiny, spiny Scrabble game. Make mom's year by framing a new family photo. These gifts are great for parents, in-laws, grandparents, neighbors — all of the wise men and women in your life.

1. Path Travel 28" Hardside Suitcase - This is the nudge they need to finally take that dream vacation — and a thank-you for every time they’ve watched your kids while you were away. $59
2. Amazon Smart Plug - “Alexa, turn on the lights.” This plug makes almost any of their devices voice-activated. They can even control lights, fans, and appliances remotely, from their phones. (But you might have to show them how.) $24
3. Peanut Butter Sampler - Six yummy blends for the snack king and queen. They’ll love pulling all of these out when the grandkids come over. $40
4. Supima Classic Hemstitch Sheet Set - The softest, nicest sheets. They’ll feel like they’ve been transported to a fancy resort for their long winter’s nap. $80
5. Staub Cast-Iron Round Cocotte - The perfect size for two. For grandma’s Sunday Sauce and grandpa’s chili. $159.99
6. Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style - A coffee-table book with style and legacy that predates them. Watch them take a walk down memory lane. $100
7. Flash Furniture Grandstand Comfort Seats in Dark Blue - So they can sit comfortably at all of their grandkids’ football games and soccer games. Thrones for the Biggest/Best fans! (We got these for Chris's parents last year and they're STILL thanking us.) $53
8. Scrabble Deluxe Edition with Rotating Wooden Game Board - Your dad’s favorite game forever, mostly because your mom lets him make up words. $109
9. Insulated Tote - They’re famous for their snack bags, and they pride themselvess on “winning” every potluck. $59
10. Mirrored Window Birdfeeder - So they can spend their retirement bird-watching. (Dad already observes his feathered friends like there’s a plot.) $39
11. Solid Wood Cornhole Game - They’ll love tossing the bean bags — and hosting tournaments for their kids and grandkids. $129
12. Custom framed family photo - Upload a favorite family photo from the year, have it artfully framed, and they’ll treasure this forever. Starting at $42
13. Scotch Plaid Flannel Robe (find hers here) - What used to be weekend-wear is just morning-wear for these retirees. $69
14. Pinecone Wreath - To hang on their front door all season long, for years to come. $298
15. Waxed-Canvas Log Carrier - What better way to invite Grandpa to the cabin for the weekend? This handsome momento will keep his busy building fires, his preferred job. $69

More gifts for empty nesters here! And the 2019 gift guide here!