6 Tips for Buying the Perfect Gift

Even at the best of times, it is difficult to know if the gift you are purchasing is going to be well received.

Here are some helpful tips you may find useful when deciding on a gift:

Well in advance, of the special occasion, listen and take note when shopping together, watching T.V. or in conversation, comments made in regards to a particular activity or product.

Try to make your gift recipient appropriate - take into account their lifestyle, likes and dislikes, and their overall financial situation. For instance, if the person you are buying for has never shown an interest in working-out, a gift certificate to a gym may be a poor choice. If they prefer to wear casual clothing, buying them an expensive garment may end up hanging in the closet. Should they be on a fixed income, giving them a gift certificate to a business you know they patronise, as a particular grocery store; restaurant; clothing shop or department store will be a successful gift.

Just because you love, a certain product or a certain eatery does not mean everyone else will find it just as desirable. Though well intended, this type of gift giving usually ends up gratifying the giver and not so much the receiver, for an example, do they really like having to dress-up to go out for dinner or is this something they avoid like the plaque? Does that expensive watch, jewellery or elaborate vase fit into their lifestyle or décor?

Giving a lavish gift to someone who may not have the means or the desire to reciprocate, spells disaster, this type of gift giving may cause a whole array of mixed feelings, consisting of stress, resentment and anger.

A couple, whom have been together for a long time, can give each other a 'wish list'.  This can be a pleasant experience for both, while still keeping that element of surprise.  

Never give a gift without thought just for the sake of giving. That huge, tin box of assorted cookies maybe a great gift for a large family, but will be seen as an anchor to a weight conscious couple.

Poem - Female View of Christmas Eve

Fem Night before Christmas

Darkness arrives early these days, the night air still and chilling

Weary we hurry home from shopping with hearts warm and willing.

With still so much, left to do we cannot afford to rest:

Time is of the essence for this Christmas to be the best.

From their secret place treasures once again appear:

A timepiece and a pendant, with diamonds bright and clear.

Gifts are lovingly arranged beneath a sparkling lit tree

With holly and pine arrangements, set out for all to see.

We adorn and admire every well-placed decoration

Closure is welcomed, this night of long anticipation.

Every gift is wrapped, every special delight chosen

Ready for Christmas, though the turkey still quite frozen.

We fill and raise our glass to rejoice in celebration

For Christmas Eve has achieved another realization.

Poem written by: Dickenson

Everything Comes With a Price

Whenever, I have a life changing decision to make I remember this saying, "everything comes with a price".  A kind, elderly woman said this to me after I had expressed to her the hurt I felt over the loss of my beloved pet, and vowed I would never have a pet again.

This saying changed my perspective; and since then, I have not one, but two pets.

Making the Right Political Vote?

I am somewhat confused whether we should vote for the candidate or for the politics. 

With recent and upcoming elections, it is easy to be swayed with all the posturing and rhetoric.

I would like to believe I am a good judge of character, and I do study the issues, but I have to admit my vote does go to the candidate whose personality traits mirror my own.