(ARA) - There has rarely been a year when so much has been asked of so many. Families and friends across the miles have clung tight to each other and most have come out more connected than ever. When it's time to sit down to make your holiday gift list, it's going to be tougher than ever to find that perfect "something" that says, "I'm thinking about you," or "Thank you for everything."
This year when you sit down to make your list, take a moment and savor the memories of times spent together. Jot them down. There are many ways to show you care without spending a lot of money. And a trip down memory lane may lead you to wonderful gifting ideas that will be appreciated for years to come.
Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
* Think about the special memories and try to re-create those moments. Remember the time Aunt Mary laughed so hard at the Christmas breakfast table that her belly hurt? How about the time Cousin Sarah surprised you with homemade cookies when you aced that college exam? How about when Grandpa Joe kept a secret stash of chocolates just for you?
Turn those memories into a memorable gift. How about giving Aunt Mary a breakfast basket full of goodies and a special card that reminds her of that memory? A tin of special cookies for Cousin Sarah and some of Grandpa Joe's favorite chocolate treats will sure to be big hits - especially when they come with a hand-written reminder of how much they mean to you.
With buy now, pay later options that many companies like Swiss Colony offer, you can also make sure your gift arrives at the perfect time. That way the holiday doesn't get delayed, and your gifts are fully appreciated.
* Give the gift of time. For some family members and special friends, the gift that means the most is time spent together. For those who have everything, here are a few things that might bring a smile and special thanks.
- Coupons for washing windows, cleaning out closets or garages, mowing the lawn, raking leaves, etc. These are especially nice for those who might be getting on in years. Each coupon redemption also means even more opportunities to have a cup of coffee and a piece of cake with that special person at the kitchen table.
- Moms and dads with young children sometimes appreciate a night out or a night alone. Offer to baby-sit - consider creating a special redeemable "You" night, giving them a chance to re-charge the batteries. Be sure to bring along some special goodies for the kids.
* What would you love? Think about what you would like to receive and the look on your face if you opened a package filled with tasty sweets, cheeses, nuts or baked goods. Bet your face has a big smile. Most people don't purchase something like that for themselves, but chances are they'll be thrilled to receive some of the edible delights of the season.
Hand-decorated sweets. Luscious baked goods. Yummy cheeses and meats. Even reduced-fat treats that make you forget they're good for you. And one of the best places to find them is from the place special holiday moments have been made for more than 80 years, Swiss Colony.
Ready to turn those memorable moments into great gifts? Dust off those old photo albums and browse through the memory banks, remembering the people who make your life incredibly rich. And the best part? You get to re-live some of the best moments, too.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
