Rediscover the lost art of giving at Paper House

We've seen videos of a child or know firsthand of a child that has received a most coveted toy.  They do not hide their feeling - total joy with screaming, pumping fists, and thank you's all around.

Hopefully, you have given "the perfect gift" to a loved one.  While the demonstration of gratitude may be more subtle - a beaming smile or a twinkle in their eyes - you can see for yourself the meaning of "it is better to give than to receive".

Gift cards have recently become a popular gift choice.  They are convenient and you can't buy the wrong size.  However, you will not get the same response from the recipient as you would if you gave "the perfect gift".

Sometimes the perfect gift just takes some creativity.  Here are some thoughts:

You have a friend or loved one who is an avid gardener.  Buy an inexpensive clay pot, some cute gardening gloves and fill up the pot with the gloves and Crabtree and Evelyn's Gardeners product.

You have a friend who is a coffee junkie.  Buy a gift card from the local coffee shop and to make the gift more special include the gift in a coffee mug with the caption, "I'll have a cafe mocha vodka valium latte, to go please."  Long after she has used up the gift card, she will smile and think of you whenever she uses the mug.

Christmas time is an expensive time for newlyweds.  Not only do they need to buy gifts, but often have to decorate for the first time.  Puchase them the Willow Tree Nativity as a wedding gift.  Add pieces for any gift-giving occasion and before they know it, they will  have a complete nativity scene for the holidays.

Pass on the traditions that your family and friends love, such as Department 56 villages.  Start them with one piece that means something special to them.  A church because they just got married, a school because they are a new (or just retired) teacher, or any of the themed pieces to match their favorite hobby (nautical, music, etc.)  Sign and date the "house" on the bottom - making it a remembrance piece.

What new parents wouldn't love to receive a video, popcorn, and the cookbook "Dinner and a Movie".  Perfect for an at-home date night.

A few creative thoughts and you have made your best friend or loved one feel very special.

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