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It's possible to show gratitude without trinkets and tchotchkes. This woman knows you're on a budget and she's told you not to buy her anything. A real gift would be listening to her wishes, and just enjoying the time you're spending together.
100% agree with this.
I have too much stuff and not enough time. An afternoon of time together is a wonderful gift.
Or a nice winter/holiday arrangement for the table(s)?from the florist?
About 15 years ago, when my mom was 72, I bought her a Christmas centerpiece and she loved it so much that it's become a tradition ever since. It is something she can enjoy for a few weeks and she doesn't have to save it. This is also a nice idea for anyone who has everything but especially for shut-ins. Another plus is that you don't have to worry about FedEx, UPS or the USPS losing a package or having the delivery delayed.
(Btw, regarding the post regarding bulbs, I would not advise that unless you KNOW the person would enjoy that. I personally would not, as I hate to garden -- probably due to the fact that I have a "brown thumb".)
About 15 years ago, when my mom was 72, I bought her a Christmas centerpiece and she loved it so much that it's become a tradition ever since. It is something she can enjoy for a few weeks and she doesn't have to save it. This is also a nice idea for anyone who has everything but especially for shut-ins. Another plus is that you don't have to worry about FedEx, UPS or the USPS losing a package or having the delivery delayed.
(Btw, regarding the post regarding bulbs, I would not advise that unless you KNOW the person would enjoy that. I personally would not, as I hate to garden -- probably due to the fact that I have a "brown thumb".)
She likes to grow things but she always picks up what she wants when she wants it. Some people allow clues just in general conversation. She does not.
Anyway, I was looking for a surprise. A lot of great suggestions were given I can use for her bday or for someone else, I appreciate everyone who posted.
Since I broke down and ASKED her what she would like, and she said 'please don't, you can treat me at the restaurant' I will just do that and maybe the charitable donation too. I want to make a donation anyway. Meant to do one specifically for needy kids gifts but that ship sailed.
This thread mentioning edibles made buying easy for other people. they all got the gourmet cookies! If they are good, everyone likes cookies and they are really pretty with the toppings. That was better than racking my brain for everyone.
I just have to stop doing that every year. I am not around family very much anymore to get clues.
About 15 years ago, when my mom was 72, I bought her a Christmas centerpiece and she loved it so much that it's become a tradition ever since. It is something she can enjoy for a few weeks and she doesn't have to save it. This is also a nice idea for anyone who has everything but especially for shut-ins. Another plus is that you don't have to worry about FedEx, UPS or the USPS losing a package or having the delivery delayed.
(Btw, regarding the post regarding bulbs, I would not advise that unless you KNOW the person would enjoy that. I personally would not, as I hate to garden -- probably due to the fact that I have a "brown thumb".)
I love this idea. When I used to host thanksgiving, my late sister in law, who wasn’t much of a cook, would always bring a beautiful fresh centerpiece for the table. It usually lasted through til Christmas.
Last year I got a small gift, a pretty soap dispenser because I noticed her kitchen had a plain plastic one. This year I have no idea AND I want to include her husband and son who have helped me move furniture.
Her other friends seem to know how to come up with nice gift ideas, and I don't. The pretty soap dispenser and some fun little bottles of vodka in different flavors on another occasion and I am out of ideas.
Oh, and a long time ago before I knew her better I got a small cake and a gift card for a birthday. The gift card went to her son, as she doesn't like Starbucks.
I pressed a higher value gift card later to a place I KNOW she and hubby like to eat but she didn't want to take it at all.
The income disparity is huge and to me that doesn't mean I don't do my share of giving but to her it does. It would pain her if the gift is too expensive.
Holiday hand or dish towels are always needed. Candles are a nice gift.
Plants are a great idea. If I spend too much on anything, it is plants for my garden. A gift certificate for a nursery would be very appreciated. If someone can’t Garden, then who wouldn’t enjoy a nice live plant or fresh flowers?
I absolutely hate plants. I have enough stress taking care of two kids, 1 lizard, four cats and a dog. The last thing I need in my life is another dependent
I absolutely hate plants. I have enough stress taking care of two kids, 1 lizard, four cats and a dog. The last thing I need in my life is another dependent
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