My fellow Americans...

In doing some birthday shopping for my little girl, I noticed that the Christmas season is soon upon us.  And while I can't say I'm looking forward to braving the masses, I am excited about the giving spirit that often overtakes us.

With that in mind, I have started looking for ideas on how to give better.  Not as in better wrapping or finding the right doo-dad or what's-it, but instead to give more than presents, to give presence.  To aim to be with people.  This can certainly include a gift, but maybe a little different. 

EXAMPLE: give a board-game with a homemade gift certificate for a "dinner and game night" at your house.

It's aiming to give better relationally.  This means to invest in someone, instead of something for someone.  I hinge it under the idea that most of us have more stuff than we need, but we could always use more time with people we love.  So how do we do that?

Here's an idea from a friend, cook 30 meals for someone else for 30 days.  Her mindset behind it can be found here: http://amyfmitchell.blogspot.com/

Another great idea is to do treasure hunt with your family.  This takes minimum planning and produces warm memories.  Video tape and share it!  Need help?  Try: http://kids.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Free_Treasure_Hunt_Clues


Not the active type?  Get a friend a book that you're reading and plan to meet and discuss the chapters as you go through it together.  Buy the coffee when you're together.


Most of these ideas don't fit under a tree, but they'll certainly keep Christmas cheer alive long after the wrapping paper has been thrown away.  

Have any great ideas?  PLEASE share!