11.28.2016

Meaningful Gifts

The Christmas season is finally here! This could mean an abundance of unnecessary gifts that end up in the back of a closet somewhere and are begrudgingly put out when the giver comes to visit. It is wonderful to feel loved and appreciated by receiving a gift. However, these knick-knack gifts can add up into full-blown clutter, and guilt can prevent the receiver from passing on items that they no longer need. Here are some alternative gifts that will mean a lot, but not take over the attic.



Experience Gifts

Giving experiences is one way to show others how much you care. For example, Datebox is an online subscription service that sends a box with everything you will need for an exciting date with your spouse/significant other. Past boxes have included materials to make homemade ice cream, a dance lesson DVD, and a scavenger hunt to do with another couple. You can buy a box now and give the code as a gift for the receiver to redeem whenever they want. For more information, go to getdatebox.com.

Another way to give an experience rather than an item is by thinking about what type of activity the receiver would enjoy and giving them a voucher for a class. Many community centers or community colleges have continuing education classes where they offer art, cooking, and dance classes. Get creative! If your brother-in-law is an adrenaline junkie, look for a nearby place where he could go zip lining. If your mother loves to solve puzzles, give her the chance to shine at an Escape Room. A great place in Amarillo is Amarillo Escape and Mystery. They are very well put together and offer a fun challenge. Find out more at amarilloescapeandmystery.com.

Gifts For Others

My dad started a family tradition about ten years ago that has meant more to our family than any item ever could. He always takes some money that would be spent on our personal presents, and instead gives it to a charity that is important to us. Then, he writes a deeply heartfelt letter that describes where he sent the donation in our name and why he chose that specific place. Each year he chooses a different charity, and each year, we read the letter through teary eyes. Furthermore, giving gifts to charity in honor of someone is a great way to spread the Christmas spirit and focus on the good will that can be forgotten during the busy Christmas holidays.

Finally, I hope these gift ideas bless you and your loved ones this Christmas. If you find yourself on the receiving end of a multitude of unneeded gifts, or you need to utilize space better, know that Joyful Organization is only a phone call away. Merry Christmas!