This is our brief annual look at the gift of giving.

Without exception, our friends and followers tell us that the most important thing they want is to give gifts that will be appreciated.

Check out the New York Times 2023 Holiday Gift Guide:

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Great ideas include Vermont wooden bowls, lots of foodie suggestions and cookbooks, and even biodegradable panties(we are not going there).

For those of us who love fashion, check out the Fashionista site that includes books about fashion icons and celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor:

https://fashionista.com/2023/12/fashion-books-holiday-gifts-

A gift that I like to give and I know has been appreciated by friends and family in the past is a membership to a museum or a donation to a charity that has meaning for the recipient. These gifts last all year long which makes them particularly special. One year, a friend gave me a gift that made a donation in my name to save elephants in Africa.

Donating to Save Elephants is a caring gift

Lucy shares her thoughts:

Although for many years I protested, it is so much fun to pick up a gift here or there all year long for cherished friends (Claudia always knows the theme!) and I find myself smiling as I head to the check out with the perfect gift in August. So much a better experience than Amazon.

Anna Wintour presents in Master Class

A suggestion is to give a Master Class. (masterclass.com) I love getting Master Class.  It is a great way to encourage learning something new and I enjoy hearing from renowned leaders and academics in their professions.

Books are always a big part of holiday giving.  Small local bookstores are still here in spite of massive online competition and we can help them by buying from small retail book stores.

Another gift I like to give is to plan a small dinner party for a group of friends – I cook, clean up and no BYO permitted. The invitation comes in a nicely wrapped card.

My new addition this year is to haunt thrift shops for treasures.  Past purchases include a charming watercolor, a lovely vase for flowers and some festive jewels.  I shop at a thrift shop where all profits benefit a local charity -Beverly Bootstraps.org.  This doubles the spirit of giving.

Perhaps the greatest gift is the gift of friendship. There is no price for a true friend. However, you shop, and whatever gifts you choose for family and friends, remember it is the thought that really does count. We wish you good health and happiness.

Cheers