The 2022 Washington Free Beacon Gift Guide

Here at the Washington Free Beacon, we understand that 2022 didn’t always go exactly how our readers would have liked. But we also recognize that during the Christmas season, it’s not about red waves or blue waves—it’s about the waves of joy that rush over you and your loved ones as they experience the perfect gift. In this time of fierce divisions, we turn to our partners from across the political spectrum to bring you the finest holiday recommendations.

Home With Dan Cousins

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It’s been a long two years, hasn’t it? I was really hoping to share some amazing gift ideas for those of you who (like me) love to entertain, but Tish and I are still distancing until the FDA approves the new booster for Tibetan mastiffs—doggos have the same right to be free of infection as anyone else!

Yale Smart Delivery Box with Keypad ($359.99)

Without encouraging the spread of baseless conspiracy theories about increased crime rates, I think it’s fair to say that none of us want our weekly Healthy Harvest bowl subscriptions disappearing mysteriously from our porches. That’s where this new device from Yale Security comes in. The Smart Delivery Box doesn’t just provide security for your packages—the contactless design keeps you safe too by allowing you to receive deliveries even when you don’t know the vaccination status of the driver!

Zoom Pro Subscription ($149.99, billed annually)

Our holiday plans for a socially distanced secular Christmas (her tradition) and vegan Kwanzah (mine) party would not be possible without Zoom, which also made our Friendsgiving Lizzo karaoke party such a smash hit! While a free version is available, it limits your meetings to only 40 minutes, which doesn’t work for professionals either.

Envomask ($79)

Despite our best efforts to show consideration to those who are unable to receive vaccines (hello species-ists!) or to those suffering from Long Covid who fear reinfection, both Tish and I have occasionally been forced to leave the house. If your employer is requiring you to attend monthly in-office meetings, you can’t go wrong with the Envomask, which features replaceable filters, comfy gel padding, and an option to choose between regular head straps or ear loops. Ignore the dirty looks you get at the airport: You’re doing your part!

Dan Cousins is a regular contributor to Wirecutter. He is currently producing a limited run series on smart living