Fifteen Gift Ideas for Us Gals Over Fifty

Having just dusted off the candles on my 56th birthday cake, metaphorically speaking, of course, it is frankly quite exciting to know that the  REAL gift giving season is just around the corner! Let's address the needs - and more importantly, the wants - of those of us women who have seen the half-century mark come and go. We're quite a vibrant demographic, you know, and it's not as tough to shop for us as you might think!

1. Cash! We love, love, love cash! We can spend it where ever, however, we want, with no strings attached. Some of us will spend it on jewelry (Tiffany!), some on clothing (Chanel! Chico's!), others will buy a mountain bike or a new yoga mat. But bliss is cash, folks, and don't be embarrassed or ashamed to give it to us in hearty numbers. We like cash, we're not insulted by it. Viva la greenback!

2.  Gift cards. Yes, we love gift cards, too; they're second only to cash! But think carefully before you choose them. Those of us who ferret out the buys at Chico's sale rack may not appreciate a gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods. KNOW the woman to whom you're giving the gift card; know her exact and specific tastes. Otherwise, you will have spent probably good money for nothing if it is something she won't use, and you would have been better off giving her the cash in the first place! Be creative: you might want to pick up gift cards or certificates from Lowe's, Home Depot, Sears, J.C. Penney, your local higher end department stores, Linens'NThings, Bed, Bath and (way) Beyond, the recipient's favorite hair salon (always a big favorite) or spa, Borders, Barnes & Noble, even the local grocery stores if you honestly believe that would not insult but really be a plesant surprise for the card's recipient.