This year, I tried to give experiences instead of gifts. For my husband's huge family in North Jersey, we are hosting a holiday lunch at a restaurant his parents loved when they were with us. They rarely get together with the entire clan so this will be pretty special. (We actually planned it for the Saturday before Christmas but had to postpone due to the snow.)
Instead of giving different presents for all my five sisters, I'm taking them all out for a pedicure after the holidays! We'll treasure our girls day and I'll save hours of shopping!
I'm really excited about my best friend's present. I borrowed a snap shot of her mom on her wedding day. I took it to my photographer and had them retouch the image, improve the background, blow it up and frame it. It's magnificent! Her mom passed away 2 years ago and I know she will treasure this portrait forever.
My husband is head over heels in love with our dogs, who are aging rapidly now. So, I surprised him with a portrait of his beloved pooches! I told the kids' friends that we'll make gifts for each other instead of giving yet another toy. I'm hoping they'll learn to love the warm feeling I get in my heart when you're making or preparing a truly thoughtful gift.
Read more Parenting Perspective blogs by visiting the Parenting Channel on 6abc.com.
