I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “the gift that keeps on giving,” a million times before, particularly during the holidays. You might even associate the term with cruddy presents like “cheese of the month club” and dread even the quickest notion of receiving one for yourself. The funny thing is, this type of gesture is making a huge comeback this Christmas and with good reason why. Instead of getting a year supply of dairy, clever givers are finding ways to make their gifts meaningful in the sense that they continue their value far after the season has ended. Immediately gratifying trinkets such as sweaters, scratch tickets or bottles of wine are being replaced with longer lasting impressionistic expressions such as hand made items and thoughtful activities. People can only have just so much “stuff” so many are welcoming this heartfelt trend and hoping to find other unique ideas to gift.
Sometimes the thinking behind this notion is harder than the actual packaging. We may become consumed and wrapped up with a concept that is overly complicated instead of putting thoughts into simpler terms. You don’t have to be over the top with expensive presents or tokens either, so presents should reflect thoughtfulness instead of cost. In an effort to pass along this wonderful way to show someone you care, here are a few great options that may fit perfectly underneath your tree this season…
A Beloved Family Recipe
If you know of someone who loves to cook (or loves to eat) give him/her a framed copy of a special recipe you know they like! Maybe Grandma Ester left notes on how to bake the perfect ginger snap cookie or perhaps Uncle Fred bequeathed his famous clam chowder recipe to you? These are the dishes that are meaningful to gift upon someone who shares the same passion for cuisine and if you’re lucky, they might even give you a taste when they’ve tried it out.
Seeds
I’m actually using this one for my mom who adores gardening as much as I do! Although you’ll have to start collecting seeds from pods during the months of July and August, you’re efforts will be duly noted when your flowers bloom in their garden for years to come.
A Coupon Book
Get a few pieces of paper, staple them together and make your own coupons that they can use whenever wanted or needed! Create tickets that reflect the appropriateness of the relationship such as “1 Kiss” for your romantic interest and “1 Load of Laundry” for your parents. Be careful not to mix them up because things could get a little uncomfortable if the wrong person receives the wrong coupon book!
Museum Membership
Sometimes the best present given are an activity like visiting the aquarium, zoo or a museum. Memberships are an excellent way to give a gift that keeps on giving and they will long be thanking you throughout the entire year.