I love giving and receiving gifts at Christmas. But, when I think back to my childhood, I only remember a few specific presents I received. Yes, there was my first Cinderella watch in grade school and the yellow angora sweater trimmed with ribbons and pearls when a teen. But I’ve forgotten many of the rest.
What I do remember is the joy of the season and the love and warmth in my childhood home. It’s that love and joy I want to pass on to others through shared experiences. Gifts of time together can create special memories beyond Christmas that last for generations.
For children or grandchildren
Consider making something together or teaching them a new skill. We all have unique interests and abilities we can share. My grandchildren like to cook with Grandma Tea (that’s me). In early December, we bake and decorate cutout Nativity cookies together and have a tea party. When my grandchildren are adults, they will remember our traditions and the time we shared more than the toys they received and soon outgrew.
Another idea
How about giving a coupon to make a project together in the New Year or to assist them in some way? The finished product is not as important as the time you share. Consider each person’s interests, and then look for memorable gifts of time that suit them.
Taking tea together in a tearoom makes a wonderful gift of relaxing together. Some on your list may appreciate a gift certificate or coupon to a tearoom. My husband often gives me a coupon for a tearoom outing. I enjoy our shared experience more than many other gifts. My granddaughters enjoy tea outings any time of year.
For those who have everything, tasty gifts can be a good choice. Create your own gift baskets with tea, goodies, and a cup and saucer. Or give other consumable gifts. Consider personal tastes and food allergies as you personalize this present.
You don’t need to be prosperous to give cherished gifts.
I didn’t grow up in a wealthy home, but my Christmas memories are rich because of the love we shared. And those are the memories I want to create for others.
So let’s pour a cuppa’ peppermint tea and make a list of heartfelt gifts to share with loved ones. Need ideas? Pray first, asking God for inspiration for each person you want to bless this Christmas. And as Tiny Tim said, “God bless us everyone!”
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
2014 Copyright Lydia Harris
Join us daily as we celebrate Christmas with our annual 12 Days of Christmas series.
About Lydia Harris
Lydia E. Harris is happily married to Milt, her sweetheart for 48 years. She has two married children, five grandkids, and is the author of a Bible study, "Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting" (AMG Publishers, 2010 release). She's also a tea enthusiast and writes the column "A Cup of Tea with Lydia."
