12 The Queens Courier • holiday • december 12, 2013 for breaking news visit www.queenscourier.com holiday guide Gift-giving tips for people who have everything Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be difficult at any time of year, but no time places more stress on finding a great gift than Christmas. It goes beyond finding the “perfect” gift for special days and holidays to giving something s that reflects your affection or appreciation for the gifts you’ve received over time from that individual. Maybe you’re looking for a gift for that uncle who never missed an important event in your life. The one who cheered you along as you got married, had babies, suffered losses. In his 60s now, he buys what he needs and appreciates everything. Maybe your sister is the best sister in the world. She’s always there when you need a hug or a nudge. She’s crazy busy with her family and would just like one evening where someone else would take care of the dinner plans. Or you have a grandma who says exactly what she thinks at all times - for better and worse. Yet everyone loves and respects the wisdom she shares at every family gathering. Her needs are few but she loves it when you pop in on the weekend for a meal and a chat. Do these people sound familiar? There are many ways you can say, “thank you,” to these and other special people in your life. Food is probably the best gift you can give people who have everything because they will be able to eat it, share it and enjoy it with others. Whether close by or far away, a wide selection of food gift catalogs are available all year long to stir your curiosity and provide inspiration. For the women in your world who enjoy gourmet meals, they’ll love the delicious gift that comes straight to their front door from your heart. They’ll get a night off and still serve up phenomenal meals like chicken wellington, marinated king salmon filets, super-trimmed filet mignon and more. And what about that special uncle in your life? Well, beef is still tops with men for food gifts and there’s a cornucopia of gourmet meals just a short click away. If you’re still not sure, you can always choose a gift certificate and let your loved one pick a gift that will be a perfect reminder of just how much you care about them. So in the next few weeks and months when it’s time to think about giving that perfect gift to someone who has everything, think food. It’s a winner every time. Courtesy BPT Give back this holiday season The holidays are known for eliciting cheer, thanks and a sense of community as families come together to share some of their most treasured traditions, whether that’s gathering for a special meal, organizing an activity or finding a way to give back to those less fortunate. Last year, Americans gave $316 billion to charity according to Giving USA, but it’s not just financial donations needed. Many organizations depend on donations of time and kindness to get by. No matter what you choose to donate, giving back feels good. Consider all the different ways you can expand your charitable giving this holiday season: Make a financial donation as a gift Consider making a donation to a charity of choice in the name of the person who has everything. Many organizations will provide you with a thank-you card recognizing the donation, which you can then put under the tree for the holiday celebration. Choose gifts that give back The holidays are a time when many companies make donations to charities. One such company is Hickory Farms, which will donate $5 to Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign for every Party Planner Gift Box sold this holiday season, up to $500,000. This delicious gift box includes Summer Sausage, smooth and creamy cheeses, fresh nuts and crunchy snack mix. “We are honored to be supported by Hickory Farms again this season. These kinds of partnerships enable us to scale and sustain our efforts to feed more children,” says Billy Shore, founder and CEO of Share Our Strength. “Just $5 can help a child in need receive up to 50 meals. Every donation makes a huge difference.” Organize a drive Food banks and clothing charities often struggle with providing enough sustainable food and warm clothing for those in need during the winter months. Have your family and friends ask coworkers and neighbors about donating to your local food bank or clothing charity. Send an announcement via email or post signs on doors a week in advance of your drive. This gives people a chance to collect additional items to be donated. The holiday season is a time with endless opportunities to give back, whether it’s to an organization you’ve long been affiliated with or to a new cause that you’re just learning about. Giving back to others will help enhance all the emotions and warm feelings the holiday season is meant to bring. Courtesy BPT
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