Great Gifts That Embody the Spirit of Giving by Rona Cherry l Holiday Gifts From the Heart l Holiday Gift Ideas l Gift Youll Cherish

Green Gifts

Gifts of nature can be very special. Herbal bouquets make charming gifts for the holidays, birthdays, housewarmings or simply as an expression of friendship. Handwrite a pretty tag that names the herb, as well as the specific sentiment conveyed. For instance, thyme is for strength and courage, rosemary for remembrance, velvety gray-green sage for wisdom. You can always buy the herbs in the supermarket to tuck into a simple bouquet of Queen Ann’s lace, rosebuds or ivy. Or buy a small flower pot, some soil and a package of lavender seeds (burpee.com is a excellent source). Whomever receives the gift will remember you when planting the seeds and after they blossom. Attach a note: “Make a wish and see it grow.”

In Honor Of

Instead of a wrapped present, give a gift in a person’s name to charity and help others at the same time. For instance, give a flock of chickens by way of The Heifer Project International to a struggling family in one of 30 countries around the world. The Heifer Project provides a variety of food-and-income producing animals to needy farm families striving to become self-reliant. Or help medical institutions working to fund critically needed scientific research. For instance, Lyme Research Alliancefunds critically needed research on Lyme and tick-borne diseases at universities around the country. Another option: contribute to one of the lesser-known non-profits in your community that helps sick, neglected, abused or homeless persons. Organizations will send a letter or a pretty certificate to the person you choose to honor with your gift.