I know, I know. Another list of things to get farmers for Christmas. Every time I get asked to participate in one of these, everyone’s looking for a new, unique idea. I get it, because I always want to be the one with the new, unique idea. But honestly, other than each person’s individual preferences and hobbies, I just want things I’m going to use. So, this is a short list of the things I’ve been using lately that I would love to get for Christmas.
Gloves. I’ve found my perfect gloves. They’re called Handlandy gloves, and they’re waterproof, touchscreen capable, and functional. I’ve spent my entire life looking for the perfect gloves, and I had finally admitted to myself that they don’t exist. You can either find gloves that are warm but not functional, or functional and only warm-ish. These gloves last, keep you dry, and I can keep them on when doing smaller tasks like opening gate clips. Major win.
A lightweight headlamp. It’s technically a headlight band. It’s from Nightbuddy and it’s relatively new, but I love it so far. It has multiple settings and is lightweight enough that it doesn’t fall down my head every three minutes. This time of year — when it gets dark at 4:30 p.m. — I don’t leave the house after 5 without it.
Wireless headphones. I have AirPods, but there’s are lots of quality off-brand headphones out there now. Even if you don’t listen to music, they’re great for making phone calls on the go on equipment. Wires are so 2010. Add to this one a yearlong subscription to a music streaming service. I use Spotify and couldn’t live life without it.
Moisturizer. Let’s be real, things are getting really dry. Hand moisturizer, body moisturizer, face moisturizer, and an entire box of medicated lip balm are super appreciated this time of year. Seriously, last week, I went on Amazon and bought 3 cases (4 tubes to a case) of Nivea medicated lip balm. They’ll be empty by February.
Last, but most certainly not least, good quality base layers. When I say quality, I mean, don’t be afraid to spend $75 on a thermal undershirt. I resisted for years — like, 35 of them. But it has been worth every penny. Or give a gift card to a heavy-duty clothing company. I’ve been seriously digging Duluth lately, just FYI.
Obviously, knowing who you’re buying for and getting them something special is always preferred. But I also know that buying for farmers is nearly impossible, and these are gifts I’d be happy to open on Christmas Day.
The author dairies in partnership with her parents and brother at Spruce Row Farm in Pennsylvania. Jessica is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, and since 2015, she has been active in promoting dairy in her local community. You can find her and her 250 Jersey cows on Facebook at Spruce Row Dairy or on Instagram at @seejessfarm.
