There was a plan. I was going to be done with my Christmas shopping by December 1 and spend the next 24 days being completely relaxed (about the holidays, anyway - I am rarely completely relaxed). Then something happened and I'm still a bit confused.
The last thing I remember is that it was December 1, I wasn't quite finished but could get there in a couple of days and now a it's the 15th and yet again, the holiday stress is getting to me. And I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one. Whether it's juggling work and seasonal parties while keeping your pain levels down to a dull roar, trying to find that perfect gift for someone you care about or doing everything you can to make time stop so you can catch up, we all need a helping hand at this time of year.
I can't come to your house and cook the turkey for you, but I can give you suggestions for easy, last-minute gift ideas for people living with RA. Two years ago, I wrote a similar post with some higher ticket items and this year, I'll be suggesting gift ideas that are not quite as expensive, some of them even free. Use them for your friends, your family or forward this post to your loved ones as a not-so-subtle hint.
A Healthy Care Package
Visit your local health food store to collect items that can work for RA. Get supplements like cod liver oil and vitamin D, topical pain relievers like oregano oil or Arnica gel and essential oils, e.g. peppermint oil is supposed to be good for pain. Include healthy snacks like brown rice chips or crackers, organic chocolate and cookies and maybe include a gift certificate so the recipient of your gift can go back to stock up on what they need. Place in a nice wicker basket or gift bag, dress it up with curly ribbons and you're done!
Spa Package
Who among us haven't bought a bath package for someone who loves luxuriating in a bubblebath? This is like that, except with a focus on RA. Get the usual bath things, such a loofah, various forms of bubblebath and add candles, a homemade CD with relaxing music's, ice packs, heat packs and some really yummy lotion. Consider adding a home paraffin bath with some paraffin cakes, as this can work wonders for aching hands and feet - they're available at drugstores and on Amazon. If you're feeling extravagant, add a fluffy towel or a nice throw. However, be careful about scented products - make sure you know if your recipient has asthma or is otherwise sensitive to fragrance or chemicals.
Good Books
Books are always a great idea for gifts and there are a number of books about RA and living with chronic illness that can be a long-term help to someone who shares their life with RA:
First Year: Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed - a couple of years ago, I did an interview with M.E.A. McNeil, the author of this book and not only is she a wonderful human being, the book is one that I always recommend to people who have just been diagnosed. It's a wonderful resource and learning tool and veterans of RA can learn much from it, as well.
