‘Tis the Season!
With the holiday and gift giving season upon us, I like to challenge myself each year to:
1) buy local where possible
2) try to buy or include an experience
3) include a charitable element, if I can
I love experience gifts! Giving the gift of time, attention, and unforgettable memories, I feel, is so much more special than another plastic toy destined for the bottom of the toy bin. These are the kinds of gifts that stay with you forever. And the experiences do not need to be gigantic, just time spent that you cannot box and wrap!
Now, of course, unwrapping something is exciting and part of the holiday magic! But instead of picking out a toy, socks or a sweater, think of how you can tie this into an experience you can share together. Or, if you are far and away like my nephews, how they can go out, burn energy and have some fun doing it!
A new pair of socks, runners or magnifying class could be paired with a scavenger hunt so you can explore one nice winter day. A family pass to the Museum or tickets to a movie (disguised in a popcorn box for opening fun) is a great way to spend time together. A book that you can get cozy with (or take a trip to the library) and take time to read together is easy and special. Making the holidays less about stuff and more about creating memories from an experience, big or small, that will last a lifetime.
In this issue of Winnipeg Parent, you can visit our gift giving section for suggestions (try and pair with an experience – but no added holiday pressure!). You will also find articles about giving back, why experiences are fantastic and ideas on local memberships, music and photography classes and other great ideas from Winnipeg contributors. Read on how to make your New Years resolutions stick (again!) and how to keep kids busy in the snow this winter!
However you celebrate the holidays, we at Winnipeg Parent wish you and your family time together and good health and happiness in the New Year!
Happy Holidays!
