Looking for ideas to cheer up loved ones this winter?  We’ve picked our favorite gifts we’ve received and given over the holidays, and plan to gift them to our special people for Valentine’s Day.  We call these our “Winning Gifts” because we know the recipients absolutely loved them, so they are a “no-risk” gift solution for upcoming gift-giving occasions.

Ember Mug – this hi-tech mug is connected to a an app on your smartphone and allows you to set the temperature to keep your coffee or tea at your desired degree of warmth!  My husband loved this so much, I am getting him another one to use at work. We got the 14 oz at home mug version, but it also comes in a travel version.

Instant Pot – there are many models to choose from, with lots of crossover options, so the trick is finding the right one for your needs.  For example, some allow for cake-making and some connect to your smartphone to allow you to program recipes.  We found this to be a terrific gift for relatives who are just starting out on their own or for housewarming gifts for second homes.

Heated Lumbar Pillow – I am always cold!  At least I always used to be, but now I have this heated lumbar pillow attached to my office chair and I am warm and toasty – and have lower back support!  My husband found this model on Amazon.  The pillow is comfortable without the heat, so I will be using it year round. 

Chess Set – Our family has really taken to chess during the past year.  We upgraded our chess set at the holidays with this version we found on chesshouse.com.  It is beautiful, sturdy, and well-made. The board is marked with the coordinates, which is great for our family who is learning strategy and moves. 

Body Massager – A great family gift is the Sharper Image Deep Tissue Percussion Pro Massager.  The trigger action allows you to focus on key muscle areas and helps the whole family manage their various aches and pains.

Hooded Robe – What better way to stay snug and warm than with a hooded, fleece-lined robe?  So, cozy! You can find this one at LLBean.

Sweatshirt – Lands End and LLBean both have warm and cozy hooded sweatshirts for all.  I couldn’t get one for my son at the holidays because they were all sold out, but it looks like they are in stock now!

Fleece Blanket - In keeping with the warm and cozy theme, we’ve had multiple friends highly recommend the Sherpa Fleece Throw blanket from Lands End. Can’t go wrong with this gift!