In this world of rush and hurry, gift giving is becoming a lost art. We are quick to resort to stuffing cash in an envelope or if we want to take a bit more time you can always get those fancy plastic gift card. By darn, you can even personalize it by picking out a picture. What this really says to your loved one is "I haven't got time for you or do not know you well enough to even guess what you would like, so please do your own shopping and let me off the hook.

Now, I know that there are times when some well placed cash can be a welcome gift, I think we are missing the whole point of giving a gift. That is to make the recipient feel special, loved, understood and cared for.  That is true, no matter what the age or gender.  When you are choosing a gift, take time to think about the person. What are their likes, hobbies, collections, dreams, needs or desires. Ideally, you will do this all year. If you listen carefully, most people will tell you what they like. Just file it away in your brain, or notepad if you wish.  Nothing make you feel so special as to have someone guess your secret wants. 

Gifts do not need to be expensive. It is far more important to give of yourself in the choosing of something special.

Try building on a theme.  Find a unique presentation, such as a container, basket, bowl, tin, etc. 

For instance, want to give a DVD? Try putting it in a popcorn bowl. Add some microwave popcorn, movie candy. You might even add an action figure from the movie or a cute stuffed animal.  A little tissue paper stuffed in and a few ribbons will make it a unique gift.

Baby gift baskets are always popular and cute. You can add almost anything and there are so many themes, feeding, toys, clothing, etc. Try using a receiving blanket as wrapping paper, use safety pins to fasten and top with a soft stuffed toy for a bow.

My son once gave me a pair of diamond earrings, but they were not boxed. Instead he purchased a cute granny bear and put the earrings in her ears.  I really liked the earrings but that granny bear will be with me forever. 

Once when I knew that one of my kids was desperate for cash. I broke my own rule. I got a hundred dollar bills and several Money Magazines. I stuffed the cash between the pages.

This year when you start to do your shopping, I hope that you will take the time let your loved ones know how special they are.  Find at least one special thing in which you have invested a piece of your own creativity. 

For more gift ideas, please visit  Once Upon A Find. If you don't see what you want there, please email me and I will do my best to find it for you.  Happy Holidays and Blessings from the Fairy Odd Mother @ Once Upon A Find.