The Pitch’s 2024 Holiday Self-Gift Guide for spoiling yourself
Art by Keegan Hudspeth
The holidays have arrived for 2024, and with 2025 looming on the horizon, we thought we’d take a different approach to this year’s gift guide. The Pitch has assembled an Avengers-style line-up of some of our favorite Kansas Citians, and offered the prompt: “What would you get for you?”
A self-gift guide? Yes, we think you’ve earned it in 2024. And it might be the only way to survive ’25.
Anything here could obviously be a great gift for someone else in your life, but if ever there were a year to put your own gas mask on first, it’s the end of this weird ride. If other people in your orbit have earned some strays off this list, well 😛
Have at it:
Bryan Busby
KMBC 9 Meteorologist
The book, You are a badass, by Jen Sincero. It is a self-help book like no other, using very directed, frank wording. With a title like that, you can only imagine the language she uses to motivate you. I have given friends and my protégés this book as a holiday gift for years.
Laundry Sauce—a detergent drop-in pod. My favorite scent is French Saffron. The scent lasts long in my clothes and especially in my sheets and towels.
Rather than pop, tea, or coffee, we are all instructed to drink more water. But pure water can be bland. I cannot tell you how much more water I drink now, thanks to the Cirkul flavor cartridges. I down at least three or four 32 oz bottles daily! You can adjust how much flavor you can infuse in each sip. And, if you need some extra sparkle, I add one can of bubbly to the tumbler as an extra treat. With so many flavors in both skews, the combinations are endless.
I didn’t get a chance to visit all my usual favorites. But, if you plan to dine around town besides our amazing BBQ places, some of my picks include PotPie, Succotash, Jaspers, La Bodega, and Mesob. Plus, thanks to a buddy of mine, The Antler Room is now a definite go-to for me.
There are so many wonderful locally-owned restaurants to support. On special occasions, when I like to splurge on a nice steak, I head to Gordon Ramsay Steak at Harrah’s Casino. Sometimes, the best gift is time spent with those whose company you enjoy. And what better way is there than hanging out over a meal and drinks?
Ellie Wheeler
Professional Soccer Player for the Kansas City Current
We obviously have to start out with my second home, CPKC Stadium! It is truly such a special place, filled with the best fans in the world. I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. I HIGHLY recommend getting tickets to experience a KC Current game there; It is absolutely unreal! What would be a better gift than getting to come see the KC Current play?
Coming in second on my list is Paleterias Tropicana. I come here an unhealthy amount, but it is so worth it! If you love paletas or mangoneadas, this is the place to go! My favorite is the Double Mangoneada with strawberry and lime sorbet. SO GOOD!
Finally, if you’re an accessory and jewelry person like me, I definitely recommend taking a look inside Rowan’s shop! I have gotten a ton of my earrings from here since being in KC, and love them! They are great quality and have such cute designs as well! One of my favorite pairs is these cute pink heart earrings I wear in my helix piercing! These would be a great gift for a close friend, partner, or family member!
Chris Goode
Owner of Ruby Jean’s Juicery
Art from Reabbie Art, or Remy Wharry, has enhanced my year both personally and at Ruby Jean’s, where we have a few of her works on the walls. She has a refreshing take on Black culture, and I appreciate how much she involves her daughter as she chases her dreams.
A day at The Laya Center is a top recommendation for anyone. A full day of services like massage, cryotherapy, a facial, and sustenance from their Herban Tea Bar does the soul and body good.
Lastly, two more local favorites have to be the canned palomas from Mean Mule (I first tried it at Buffalo State Pizza) and cologne from Ulah. One of Ulah’s signature scents—Prairie—is my favorite, and it has a coordinating candle, too.
Jillian Carroll Letrinko
Kansas City Current Broadcast Host
No matter the occasion, from a Chiefs game to a baby shower or even a last-minute trip, the styling services and selection at Scoobie in the Shops at Prairie Village always have me looking and feeling my best! Sarah provides personal styling and the entire team is so helpful. They truly work to understand individual styles while keeping clients on trend!
Custom sunnies that sparkle are always a must! Abby at Goldie Sun handmakes custom sunnies and accessories. These make amazing gifts—I had custom sunnies made for all five of my nieces and nephews, and they are just darling! Also, Abby worked with me to design a stadium-approved sparkly Kansas City purse, and it has been a lifesaver this season!
How about an ugly Christmas sweater that doubles as a donation?! Zuzu’s Petals is a local nonprofit that works to help families who have experienced financial hardship ensure their children have a magical Christmas! The nonprofit purchases gifts for the children, provides a free Christmas dinner, and even gives the family a beautiful Christmas wreath! Their annual fundraiser this year features a locally designed Ugly Christmas Sweater, and it is SO cute! I bought one for myself and my husband and I will definitely be rocking it to a few different Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties this holiday season!
Hayley Lewis
Sports Reporter
If you’re a gameday girlie like me, I’m sure you’re always on the hunt for the latest Chiefs gear! One of my favorite finds this season has been Gameday Couture! Not only do they offer a wide variety of fan-favorite trends, but their styles are ever-changing and keep any sports lover up to date! When football and fashion collide, I’m in heaven.
Another great find this year was Rochester Brewing and Roasting Company. This coffee shop located in downtown Kansas City in Crossroads has been one of my favorite finds for WFH days or late-night study sessions. Enjoy a coffee or espresso martini while knocking out your work! Whatever floats your boat! A gift card to this local spot would be ideal for anyone. They also host trivia nights, thirsty Thursdays, and local parties. It’s a HUGE space, so grab a spot in a quiet cozy corner, or chat it up in the mess hall.
One thing I know I’ll be gifting this season are Cleaning Maids In & Out’s services. This year I discovered how it feels to delegate part of my to do list and hiring a local, women-owned cleaning service was something I should have done years ago! Not only can you gift your friends/family a clean space, but you give them time and I’m sure some much-needed freedom from chores.
Lastly, you can’t put a price on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. CPKC Stadium is breaking barriers in the world of Women’s Sports, and its historic stadium hosts some of the most electric KC Current games. Tickets to watch these ladies are a must for any sports lover!
George W. Gates II
Owner of Gates Bar-B-Q
Let me start off with my all-time favorite gift! Of course, you know it would be a gift certificate from Gates Bar-B-Q, and with five locations, there’s always one nearby.
I’m that person who never puts all their eggs into one, two, or even three baskets! I feel the same way about holiday gift giving. Because of my wife, every day is a holiday in our house! We enjoy the simple but peaceful things in life! We give family and friends our favorite Meyers Clean Day Lavender Candles. This scent is soothing, incredibly refreshing, and can be purchased easily.
You can never go wrong with any spa treatments! Our favorite location would be The Spa At Briarcliff. My wife happens to enjoy a full-body massage after the free yoga classes. Now that’s something to consider!
Last but not least, there’s always a great time to be had with a couple of tickets to Jazzoo! There’s food from an array of local restaurants as well as live music from some of Kansas City’s finest Musicians!
Michelle Cooper
Professional Soccer Player for the Kansas City Current
I have gone to Driftwood Ceramics multiple times, and it is so much fun. The people who work there are extremely knowledgeable and make the experience of throwing pottery so enjoyable. All levels of pottery experience can go, and I highly recommend it!
My dog Moodie—I rescued him from Lucky 13, and he is my rock. On off days, we often go on trails here around Kansas City. If we aren’t on trails, we are at home cuddling or trying out some new food spots in the area!
Pitchside Coffee—my teammates! You have to catch them while they’re out on an off day because it’s not too often! They are constantly working to grow their business and watching it is so exciting. Stay tuned to see what’s coming up next from them!
CPKC Stadium—Being a part of history and inspiring future generations is absolutely priceless. Being able to call this stadium home is a feeling like no other.
Kata Nori—The BEST sushi in Kansas City. The owners are so incredible and have such a passion for their restaurant. They truly care about their customers and make every visit an enjoyable one.
Dániel Sallói
Professional Soccer Player for Sporting Kansas City
After trying padel for the first time this year, I am hooked—So much so that we invested in bringing it to KC: La Casa del Padel. As an athlete, I enjoy trying new sports, but this game [padel] is great for anyone who enjoys tennis or pickleball—It’s a dynamic and social game. It’s worth a try and adding to your weekly rotation.
Mergers and Acquisitions has a really cool business model. With its retail side and then creative studio, it has this almost New York City vibe and feels like a place that brings Kansas City forward. I’ve worked with them on the creative side, and the shop has become my go-to for gifts. I can always find something for my mom, sister, and girlfriend there.
Varsity Club—The River Market spot has a perfect combo of drinks and food for any situation. I followed Disco Burger pop-ups for a while and am glad they have a more permanent spot. It has a good vibe, great burgers and cocktails, and is run by very nice people.
Billie’s Grocery is in my constant rotation. I can count on it for a healthy, high-quality meal as an athlete. Once I find a trustworthy spot like this one, it takes a lot to convince me to try something else. For breakfast, brunch, coffee, everything—Billie’s is my first pick when I need to feel good. A gift card to Billie’s will help pass on that good feeling.
Tad O’Had
Kansas City Mavericks Head Coach
Legacy by James Kerr allows readers to take into perspective what the rugby club, The All Blacks, can teach us about the business of life. It’s an incredible book gifted to me by our starting goaltender Jack LaFontaine during our 2024 Kelly Cup Finals run. He and I share books, and this has a huge impact on my coaching.
A Liga Privada number 9 cigar from Kansas City’s La Cultura Cigar & Social—“Liga Privada” means “private blend.” It is the perfect name, as this cigar was originally crafted not for resale, but for their own personal humidors. Dozens of intricate blends were created, but number 9 was flawless in both flavor and character. Rich, complex, and full-bodied without being harsh, this amazing vitola is best described in one word: satisfying. This gift is perfect for any man in your life looking to unwind and enjoy a cigar. My favorite activity after a Mavericks win is enjoying a cigar.
From my home state and shipped from Seattle—Home of the KC Mavericks affiliate Seattle Kraken—the best “Copper River Sockeye Salmon” directly from Pike Place market in downtown Seattle. It’s one of my favorite gifts to send close friends for the holidays. The flavors and taste are amazing. It brings me back to the Pacific Northwest.
Tickets to the Kansas City Mavericks game. Live hockey is the best with its fast-pace and hard-hitting. Cable Dahmer Arena has a great fan experience, fun family atmosphere, and free parking. Come out and support Kansas City’s professional hockey team.
Paulina Otero
Artist
The first product or service that has really impacted my life this year has been my Power Life membership. Practicing yoga and exercising constantly has really helped my productivity and mental health. It has also allowed me to share buddy passes with friends who want to exercise together and create a better routine for myself.
When I feel like treating myself or someone else, I book a massage at Haven Wellness + Spa. They have a great variety of massage options and such a relaxing vibe in their space that automatically makes you feel at peace. They also have the cutest gift shop that you can browse before or after your service.
In terms of enjoying food and celebrating special moments, my go-to is Fox and Pearl. It is such a special restaurant that brings a new farm-to-table menu every season. The staff is amazing, and the place has such an inviting atmosphere.
Stephonne Singleton
Musician
Our minds get so busy making up pictures. I mean, especially now. My partner took me to an ADHDIY Craft night in August. The gift of a canvas and paint put what stirs my mind and soul on a surface. Visual art has never been more part of my life and mission since that day. The gifts of paint, brushes, and space from my partner that day (and days since), Peter Warren, and the materials I’ve brought myself have revealed new and tangible ways to bring form to pain, healing, joy, and truth. We must expand our creative capacities and not just dream, but do and make. Paint has been a gift and a key to hope.
New ink!—Keith Haring is MY GUY! I’m pretty sure we dated in the ’80s before my reincarnation. For my birthday, I got together with Mikey Wheeler of Windhorse Tattoo to pay tribute to my former baby daddy and reclaim my body from abuse and fetishizing. This EPIC thigh sleeve has not only transformed my body, but it has also given me opportunities to trust fully, breathe more deeply than ever before, move past discomfort to a fully realized vision, and take it easy and heal!
A long goodbye—In May, I said goodbye to Maverick, my dog of 17 years. It may not seem like a gift, but to love him for that long and for him to love me, he just wouldn’t let go on his own. He was truly my best friend and the best boy. I couldn’t watch him suffer, and in trying to hold on, it was denying us both freedom. Dr Locke at Union Hill Animal Hospital was great. There, with my partner and ex, that dog got to say bye to all three of his dads, and in giving him peace, Maverick gave me peace, too. He also helped me learn to let go—to never forget, but to keep in love and go on loving better because of him, my greatest love yet.
I used to be a proud proclaimer of not being much of a reader, but boy, has that changed! About to quit my three-ish year stint in Missouri cannabis, finishing writing for the new album, and feeling an unexplainable urge, I rushed to Prosperos and Half Price Books in August, and I can’t put down books since. Some recommendations: The Philosophy of Andy Warhol by Andy Warhol, Early Jazz by Gunther Schuller, The History of Nature by C.F. Von Weizsäcker, and The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. You. Betta. READ.
Angela Pritchett
Communications Manager at Lead to Read KC
The cooking classes at Hemma Hemma will fuel your creativity, feed your soul, and fill up your fridge. My daughter Grace and I did the Summer Tomato class in September, and I have dreams about the tomato toast we made.
At the Greater KC PRSA’s February Happy Hour hosted at Vine Street Brewing, I found my new favorite local beer, the Maris. We learned all about the beer goddess honored in this pale ale and her ties to the first African women brewers. She’s their logo, so you can catch her eye every time you order a beer.
Made in KC has a monthly VIP program that supports local makers and introduces you to new products. I love getting the email announcing that month’s free featured item and the reminder to go get my two free beverages at their cafes and bars.
Bryan Truta
Senior Director of Radio Operations at 90.9 The Bridge
From Taylor to Billie to Waxahatchee, the year has been full of amazing music. Or—since i might be a bit biased—for less than the price of a streaming service, you could gift yourself music AND community with a monthly membership to 90.9 The Bridge! Your gift funds new music discovery, support of community partners like the KC Current, and, of course, local working artists and musicians!
I have to attribute this to our Music Director, Sarah Bradshaw, who opened me up to the world of Tous les Jours bakery in Overland Park. Get a macaron, a Danish, or a cream-filled pastry. Heck, everything is amazing at TLJ!
The Spy Who podcast. Okay, I didn’t buy it, per se, but I did find some escapism this summer by immersing myself in stories of World War II, the Cold War, and The Troubles. With a succinct five to six episodes per season, the six available seasons will get you through a number of commutes, all while making you wonder, Has that blue car been tailing me since I got off the highway?
Abby Olcese
Pitch Film Editor
Under the Cover—If you’re shopping for self-care, you want something that’ll entertain you and make you feel good. Leave it to a romance bookstore to cater to ALL of those needs. The store’s books are organized by subgenre, and the employees are so knowledgeable that, no matter your interest, level of romance knowledge, or spice comfort, they can help you find something you’ll love. Extra special bonus: By shopping local, you’re sticking it to Jeff Bezos. Self-care AND resistance!
Criterion Channel—One of the more reasonably priced streaming services out there, with outstanding selections. Every month, the channel puts up new collections of films to help guide your viewing. My favorite last year was a collection dedicated to movies with synth scores, which included classics like A Clockwork Orange, deep cuts like the Australian horror film Next of Kin, and the British haunted house movie The Legend of Hell House. Subscribe to be the friend who hosts the weirdest and best movie nights in 2025.
Idles’ Tangk—My favorite album of the last year, by my favorite band of the last decade—cathartic punk rock about dismantling systems, calling out bull, loving yourself, and standing up for others. If I ever end up in a fight, I want Joe Talbot standing next to me.
Barb Shelly
Pitch Politics Reporter
A bike—doesn’t matter if it’s new, old, electrical, or whatever. Freedom is just two wheels away. My new road bike and the friends that I meet on the road are 90% of my physical and mental health plan.
I walked around for weeks with a blur in front of my left eye because the optical shop where I purchased my glasses wanted an exorbitant price to replace a scratched lens. Costco Optical did it for a third of the cost, and I will never purchase glasses anywhere else.
Shelf-stable gnocchi is having a moment. Turns out, this simple Italian staple is great fun to brown in a frying pan and serve with just about anything. Gnocchi recipes are suddenly everywhere, so check them out.
Enjoy Pure Food + Drink in Leawood has a drink called “hug in a mug.” With steamed milk, maple syrup, vanilla, turmeric, and more spices, it lives up to its billing. Sip it on the sunny patio and I guarantee you will feel restored.
Michael Mackie
Pitch Reporter
A serene soundbathing class from Ronn McLane at Seeking Solace Yoga Studio is bliss-filled perfection. His ability to ground and soothe even the most savage soul can be a much-needed break from the stressors of daily life.
If you desperately need a cosmic reboot/recharge heading into 2025, there’s nobody better than a sesh with local energy practitioner Angela Holmes of Spiritual Alchemy with Angela Holmes. Whatever black cloud is over your head, she’ll ensure it starts to dissipate by the time you walk out her door.
Intuitive artist Natosa Keefer does personal readings for people, but what sets her apart is that she creates a personalized piece of artwork during your session with her. It’s celestial and artisanal in one fell swoop. Plus, who doesn’t like a mixed-media painting made especially for them?
Tiffany Watts
Pitch Food & Drink Writer
This year has been about finding balance, and The Laya Center has become my retreat for just that. It’s a space where I can unwind and recharge—a practice I’ve come to see as essential to feeling grounded and present. Whenever I can, I dive into their holistic therapies, anything that lets me reset away from the noise. For anyone needing a moment of deep rest, I can’t think of a better place.
Red Signature Dad Hat from Made Mobb has become a small but meaningful part of my style. Whether I’m heading to a Chiefs game or just in the mood to serve a look, it’s a piece I find myself reaching for.
I stumbled upon Untamed Supply’s Charcoal Incense Cones at West Bottoms Plant Co., and since then, they’ve become a part of my routine. The Tonka & Oud scent is smoky and warm, filling the room with a kind of cozy calm. They always make my home feel inviting and peaceful—something I look forward to as a small moment of grounding.
Now, I didn’t expect to fall in love with roller skating again, but Sk8 Shot Studios really surprised me. As KC’s first roller-skating school, they offer classes for every skill level, and their encouragement and teaching style made it easy to shake off the nerves and just have fun on the rink. It was a chance to rediscover something I loved, and honestly, one of the best experiences of my year.
Sarah Sipple
Pitch Food & Drink Editor
Wearing and gifting jewelry from local makers helps me express my style while helping me feel connected to the women of Kansas City. Sierra Winter brings out my demure side while Paulina Otero plays up the funkiness, and Annie Austen is my go-to for everyday staples.
Though I’m literally paid to cover KC’s restaurant scene, the stars of my home kitchen this year have been locally-made: H Sauce hot honey, True Lime packets, and Shawnee’s Bates City BBQ hot barbeque sauce. I’m not afraid of flavor, and between those three items, any dish or drink can be punched up a few levels of fun!
At a Hembree concert this summer, I found myself transfixed by a stranger’s scent. I asked what their perfume was, and apparently, Santalum by Ranger Station is my kryptonite. Though it’s made in Nashville, the brand is carried at local stores like Fetch and Guevel.
Would it be a millennial woman’s list if it didn’t mention Sarah J. Maas? The Throne of Glass book series has been our household entertainment all year. My husband and I listen together and are inspired by the grit and scheming of the main characters.
Nick Spacek
Pitch Music Editor
The legendary heavy metal horror movie Trick Or Treat got a super deluxe Blu-ray from Synapse Films. I bought it the day it dropped and have been making the special features last, like a bottle of good booze.
My wife replaced my literally disintegrating Timbuk2 messenger bag with a new one this summer, and I feel like I’d previously been carrying a potato sack slung over my shoulder.
Every time I get a mutton sandwich from Peaches’ Frybread stand, it’s the highlight of my day, if not the week. Frybread wrapped around grilled mutton and roasted green Chinese and nothing else because it’s the most perfect food ever.
Technically, Adams Media sent me a copy of Andy Price’s The Extreme Horror Sticker Book: 500+ Stickers to Keep You Up at Night for review, but I’d buy it anyway. Mad scientists, bloody beasts, eyeballs… I want to stick them on everything so I can stare at them everywhere.
Maura Dayton
Pitch Photographer
OIL OF EVERY PEARL’S UN-INSIDES by SOPHIE Vinyl LP—Undoubtedly one of the greatest albums ever made in the history of music and helped pioneer the “hyperpop” genre. BRAT by Charli XCX would not exist without this album and the music of SOPHIE. This album also serves as a great reminder that trans people are awesome and contribute amazing things to our society, such as art and music, to make it more vibrant and beautiful.
Tickets to see Knocked Loose live (twice)—Knocked Loose is quickly becoming the new hot ticket band in the hardcore scene, and rightfully so. They put on one of the most hectic and electrifying live shows I have ever seen in my life. It’s so good, you have to see it twice whenever the opportunity comes.
Marijuana from Flora Farms—Let’s face it, you’re gonna really need it this holiday season.
Mar’Che Boggess
Pitch Reporter
Kayali’s Yum Pistachio Gelato Eau De Parfum is a great transitional fragrance to wear from summer to fall. It’s got all the notes we appreciate during the summer months like cotton candy, pear, and peach, while also making way for the cozy fall vibes with notes like marshmallow, cacao, and hazelnut.
The book, Black Women Writers at Work, by Claudia Tate features interviews of some of my literary sheroes including Gwendolyn Brooks, Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, and so many more. If you consider yourself a writer and want to diversify your home library, this deserves a spot on your shelf.
While I’m all for treating myself to a manicure, inflation is real. These French tip press-on nails from KISS have been getting me through this last year and haven’t burned a hole in my pocket. No, seriously, they’re only $8.
Kristen Thomas
Pitch Advice Columnist
My self-care motto is “exercise, meditate, masturbate,” but, of course, the things I do to preserve my sanity in this world go beyond these activities. The power of seasonal changes is a welcome influence. I try not to head into certain seasons with dismay and malcontent, but this fall feels like it is the fall of America.
Silence is not my jam. If people thought I was a loud-mouth leftist bitch before, just wait. Protesting, organizing, funding, and caring for your community is draining. Activists often experience burnout, especially after fighting but losing ground. It is imperative that while continuing to make good trouble, people also take time to practice real and radical self-care.
Self-care isn’t about any amount of money spent. Audre Lorde once said, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence; It is self-preservation.” What can you do to preserve your mental health? To find balance? To calm your central nervous system? To smile? Here are three items I love that are going to get me through the long winter and help me care for myself.
My leWand Die Cast Plug-in Vibrating Massager has replaced Buzz Lightyear, my Magic Wand. Whether I’m flying solo or using it during partnered playtime, this ultra-powerful rumbly vibe has been the perfect recent addition to my collection for external stimulation. Also, I’m over 40, so I actually do use it as a back and shoulder massager.
My lattes at home have reached near perfection between the espresso machine my darling husband gifted me and the lavender simple syrup I make with culinary-grade lavender from Shelti Farms. I discovered lavender lattes in 2024, and they have become my drink of choice. Lavender is known for its sweet aroma and calming effects, which I need each morning before I dive headfirst into fighting the patriarchy. Shelti Farms is a small, family-run farm in Holden, MO that offers lavender-infused farm-to-kitchen items such as honey, sugar, and pepper, as well as luxurious bath and skincare products, home products, and more.
Every time I open a book this winter, even if it’s a heavy topic, I will be smiling at my Cockmark bookmark. It is hot pink and veiny, with a white tassel coming out of the tip. I got it at Under The Cover Romance Bookshop. It’s so cute and funny. I try to keep it in the primary book I’m reading lately; That way, when I’m out and about at a coffee shop, I can make it sneak a peak out the top of my book. Just a little bit of laser-cut exhibitionism here and there makes my day.
Kaylynn Mullins
Pitch Reporter
Moroccanoil Treatment Original—Yes, this hair treatment is a bit pricey, but a little goes a long way. Using this weekly has earned me endless compliments on my hair—even while growing out my bangs. Speaks volumes to its power.
Cute hair clips from eb and co—A Taylor Swift-approved accessory shop with all your KC needs sells some of my favorite hair clips ever. Plus, it’s a local women-owned business; even cooler.
Air dry clay—A tub costs like $5 and you can sculpt anything you want and paint it with acrylic paint. Pinterest has endless cute ideas for inspiration, and it’s the perfect, cheap night-in activity.
Joe Ellett
Pitch Associate Editor
If you or someone you know is an avid reader and loves music, I would highly recommend snagging some 33 ⅓ Books from Bloomsbury Publishing. The series of books focuses on singular albums from highly acclaimed artists from all eras of music, written by a diverse array of authors who are honed in on each specific band/album. Brock has given me multiple 33 ⅓ Books, and I have loved reading each, being able to grasp a deeper understanding of the bands, their albums, down to each singular song on said album.
One thing that keeps me grounded when I am in a sea of writing stories is my collection of vinyl records. From the most beat-up ‘50s country Christmas album to A$AP Rocky’s AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP, I like to think that I have a record for almost any occasion (which I know isn’t true, but there’s time to grow). Swing by Records with Merritt or Mills Record Company (R.I.P 7th Heaven) to snag a record this holiday season. Doesn’t matter if it’s new or used; It’s the thought that counts.
New glass! No way you thought that I wouldn’t use my gift list to include some sort of weed paraphernalia. Head down to your local smoke shop to grab a new one-hitter, pipe, or bong for that special smoker in your life (even if it’s yourself). Ranging from prices as low as $5 all the way up to extravagant pieces worth hundreds of dollars, there is plenty of wiggle room for your pocket.
Hayden Kalp
Pitch Reporter
Asus Curved Gaming Monitor—Perfect for switching between work and games. The curved display is great for that extra immersion into the open world, or locking in on that report. Crystal clear picture with completely adjustable settings to fit your style.
Barnes & Noble Chess Set—It’s cheap and perfect for beginning players. Chess quickly became my go-to option for unplugging and focusing on stretching my brain in a productive, competitive, and fun way. (Pairs nicely with buying a concerning amount of chess books to quickly get better and finally beat Jacob. You hear that, Jacob? Count your days.)
A Freaking Grill—Now, I know this won’t be for everybody. But I personally find nothing more cathartic than just throwing it down on the grates for a few hours. Sometimes the world becomes too much, and you just gotta grill.
Brooke Tippin
Events Director at United Way of Greater Kansas City
To Shake the Sleeping Self: A Journey from Oregon to Patagonia by Jedidah Jenkins—This book makes me jump on my bike and dive into adventure. This is a go-to book I have on hand for any adventure seeker. Jedidah tells his story of quitting his dream job and spending 16 months cycling from Oregon to Patagonia all while contemplating—What makes a life worth living?
Under eye masks—Pop these babies on before bed for a little self-care ritual and a great gift for anyone to remind them to slow down.
A new plant! Who doesn’t want to add to their plant collection? Head to Virgil’s, Roots, or West Bottoms Plant Co to pick up a new baby or two!
Birdie Hanson
Owner of Effing Candle Co.
I didn’t know how many friends I’d make and conversations I’d start by wearing a “THIS ACTUALLY IS MY FIRST RODEO” trucker hat, but it’s officially my favorite accessory. Yet, it feels like the human equivalent of a dog wearing a “Please give me space” vest.
The best gift I ever got myself was a rescue cat. You know what makes life better? Sticking your face in a warm kitty belly. I spent most mornings leading up to the election with my face buried in Doodles’ belly. Bonus points: Shelters are overwhelmed with pets right now, so you’re getting a new best friend AND helping out animal rescues.
Escaping reality is the best. My favorite drug of choice besides a good old-fashioned THC gummy is reading. If you love reading, get a Kindle and a cute cover—Page The Shop makes THE CUTEST COVERS. Get yourself a Libby account, borrow books from the library, and send them straight to your Kindle. You might not think you want a backlit screen, but then sometimes you marry someone who goes to bed a good 90+ minutes before you do, and you can’t turn on a light, so you’re glad you got the backlit feature. Trust me.
Adrian Torres
Pitch Film Reporter
While the realm of vinyl collecting can seem daunting and expensive, it’s a good idea, if you have the means, to get some things you enjoy. For my birthday, my wife got me the vinyl printing of the How Did This Get Made? recording of the DROP DEAD FRED episode. It may sound like a silly thing to have, but when a podcast episode can bring you this many laughs and a sense of joy, it doesn’t matter how you listen to it. It’s also a reminder that you can disagree wholeheartedly about something as trivial as the concept of imaginary friends and still come out the other side.
As someone who has had a lifelong affinity for video games, there’s always been a part of me that’s wanted to get into the PC side of things. Yet, arthritis and the perceived cost held me back until I saw Nebraska Furniture Mart had the Rog Ally Z1, a handheld PC, available. So, instead of using my store card for furniture or home wear, I bought an electronic that has changed my life—turning depression or anxiety into happiness one indie title at a time. Not to mention the countless charity bundles that go to good causes throughout the year, it’s another win-win-win prospect (plus the fact that Amazon Prime gives away four free games a month, as well as Epic Game Store, you’ll always have something to play).
A kitten? Yes, a kitten. It wasn’t an expected move, but rescuing an animal has brought a salve to my family. Losing our senior dog last year hung a cloud over everything, infecting our other dog and cat. When my wife wanted to go see this tiny little “werewolf kitten,” I was reserved. Seeing him in person was a heart-melting moment. Now, after a couple of months, it’s hard to imagine our life without him. The simple act of helping a furry animal left behind and giving them a new lease on life is enough to help make it through even the darkest or most uncomfortable of times. The kind of thing you don’t know you need until you have it. My wife chose the name, but it’s perfect.
Sometimes, the best gift isn’t one you get yourself, but the enrichment it brings your partner feels like a gift back to you. That’s what happened when I got a Penoval stylus for my wife, who wanted to mess around with drawing on her Chromebook tablet. What started small has become a daily activity of her sketching or coloring complex and beautiful designs while losing herself in a world of creativity that was previously untapped—One that has blossomed into her wanting to make Christmas cards for people this year of her design. Sometimes, it truly is the littlest of things that alter our lives in unexpected ways.
Brock Wilbur
Pitch Editor-in-Chief
If you’re a curmudgeonly sass-mouth—as most Pitch readers self-identify—a subscription to the podcast If Books Could Kill is what the doctor has ordered. The co-hosts take a data-driven (and disdain-lubricated) hammer to every airport best-selling book about putting in 10,000 hours of practice, reframing your brain to make your boss more money, or, in general, the issues around being tricked into having your cheese moved. It’s the perfect antidote to 95% of the books that’ll be exchanged this Christmas that offer hollow, easily debunked horseshit that dumb people convinced other dumb people would make them look smart.
That said… if you want a book that’ll change your entire life, then strap in. Here’s a book recommended by your local smart guy, with the money-back guarantee that it’ll make you be smarter, more charming, and sexier/richer/whatever you’re looking for. The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman. This one just mitosis’d into my life, as it sprung up as the bathroom book in too many of my friends’ apartments over the last few years. I thought my Philosophy 101 level understanding of Stocism was enough to know that it wasn’t right for my brain chemistry. Turns out that a daily reminder to only put effort and emotion into the things you can control…. look, it references Fight Club more than you’d expect from a book of daily medications, but it did rebalance my brain and it’s hard to not see the positive effects that came from this $11 investment.
Films for All Seasons: Experiencing the Church Year at the Movies is a book about movies from our film editor, Abby Olcese, and that statement of fact should be enough to get you to grab a copy. If you’ve enjoyed her work over the past five years here, you’ll dig this cinematic exploration of the larger consciousness and what we owe to each other. If you have religious family that you’re uncertain what to gift their way, a book about progressive values that Jesus would dig within some of cinemas weirdest blockbusters/deepcuts is a good way to go.
There’s a mash-up of solitarie and poker called Balatro. It’s a game that’s on your phone or any video game platform. It starts pretty normal, and it gets weird. You’ll lose 100 hours on this if you don’t watch out. If you need something that doesn’t require your full attention and can kill some time over the extended holiday break, just go ahead and load this up. Actually, do it now. While I’m watching. That’s the one. Balatro. There you go. You’ll thank me.
