When I was younger, if someone had told me I’d be thrilled to unwrap a label maker on Christmas morning, I would have laughed. But here I am, 31 going on 71, giddy as can be about my collection of gifts that would make any grandma proud—and I’m loving every minute of it.

For those of you rolling your eyes or shaking your heads at the idea of practical presents, let me take you on a journey through the treasures that made my holiday season and why they’re secretly amazing.

Kitchenaid Shredder Attachment: The Gift of Effortless Prep

First on my “I’ve arrived” list is the KitchenAid shredder attachment. Gone are the days of wrestling with a box grater and risking knuckle scrapes for a pile of perfectly shredded cheese. Now, I just snap this baby onto my trusty KitchenAid mixer, and voila—shredded carrots for carrot cake, cucumbers for salads, and mountains of cheese for… well, everything. It’s a game changer that would make any seasoned cook beam with pride.

Bird Bath: A Bird Watcher’s DREAM

Yes, I asked for a bird bath—and yes, it brings me immense joy. Watching little sparrows splash around as if they’re at a summer spa is surprisingly therapeutic. Plus, there’s something about providing a haven for wildlife that feels deeply satisfying and wholesome. It’s a small reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life, like feathered friends having a water party.

Wood Fruit Bowl: Much Needed Kitchen Organization

I never knew a bowl could spark so much joy, but my new wood fruit bowl proves otherwise. Beautiful and full of rustic charm, it now sits proudly on my kitchen counter, filled with fresh oranges and apples. It’s sturdy, beautiful, and exactly the kind of timeless piece that gives a home that lived-in, loved feel. Not to mention, it reminds me to actually eat the fruit before it turns into compost.

Rain Boots for the Garden (and Puddle Jumping)

I can hear my younger self asking, “Rain boots? Really?” Yes, really. I practically jumped for joy slipping on my new garden rain boots for the first time. There’s something immensely satisfying about having the right gear for a job, especially when that job involves tromping through muddy flower beds to prune roses or plant new bulbs. Bonus points for deep green color of them—stylish, even in the dirt.

Label Maker: Why Does This Make Me So Happy?

The highlight of my haul? A label maker. I am now fully equipped to channel my inner Marie Kondo. The simple pleasure of labeling storage bins, spice jars, and even my pantry shelves has brought a new level of serenity to my home. It’s not just organization; it’s pure, unadulterated bliss—and I’m not afraid to admit it.

Ring Light: Because Even Grandmas Like Good Lighting

In a nod to modernity, my final gift was a ring light. Because while I may be embracing my inner grandma, I’m also creating videos, whether it’s for social media or documenting my latest home project. Good lighting matters, folks. And if I can have a beautifully lit frame to showcase my lovingly restored furniture or a perfectly arranged tablescape, all the better.

31 Going on 71—And Loving It

These gifts, once the punchline of my younger self’s jokes, now fill me with excitement. They represent a deepening appreciation for home, craftsmanship, and the little moments that make life rich and rewarding. If this is what it means to feel like a grandma, sign me up—afghans, crossword puzzles, and all.

So here’s to the practical, the purposeful, and the beautifully simple joys. May we all embrace the “grandma” spirit within us.

Watch my Instagram Reel where I highlight all of these products!