Think back over all the years and identify the gifts that meant the most to you. Were they gifts that were homemade by one of your children or a friend? Do you give thanks for the gifts that came at just the right time, fulfilling a need that you had? What about the gifts of time that were offered to you?  Quite often we forget to give thanks for the gifts of time that people have given us. 

When you remember holidays past, it may be difficult to recall every present that was under the Christmas tree or given to you for your birthday. But it’s often easier to remember a trip spent visiting family, an excursion to a special place, park or monument, or a special day with family or friends. 

Today you may find that it’s harder to get together with family or friends. Perhaps you only see each other at birthday parties or the holidays. Instead of buying your loved ones a gift card or another knickknack, consider giving them the gift of your time. With overflowing toy boxes and a busy after-school schedule, the best gift you may be able to give your grandchildren is a sleepover with an outing. Take them to a local farm which offers customers a chance to pick fruits or vegetables. Spend the day sharing about what life was like when you were a child. Share your wisdom, advice and family histories. Schedule a craft day and teach them how to paint, sew or build. Gift them a new deck of cards or a board game and set up a time to play it together. Find ways to teach the next generation how to do the things you enjoy and take some time to learn about what interests them. Give them a coupon or certificate good for a trip to the movies, local museum, zoo or aquarium with you. Explore the world together and see things through the eyes of a child again. 

When it comes to friends, set up a game night or an ice cream social. Have a movie night or share your vacation photos some evening. Join a book club, find a senior center with activities, or take a bus trip together. Your local library offers activities for adults and children! Celebrate anniversaries and birthdays at a local restaurant. Grab your lawn chairs and enjoy music or movies in the park. Set up a night at a theater or dinner theater, sporting event or tour the local art galleries or museums. You can even make plans to volunteer together and give the gift of time to those in need. 

If your family gathers to celebrate the holidays in December, give the gift of time by making plans to spend time together later in the year or every few months at a local restaurant. Plan a family reunion or family vacation. Find ways to be together when there aren’t a lot of holiday preparations and stress. Plan a picnic at a local park and rent a pavilion so you can save on house cleaning! 

Giving the gift of your time and finding ways to make memories as a family or with friends is much more valuable than a trinket or toy. It will last longer, doesn’t need dusting or batteries, and takes up space in your hearts and not your home. 

How will you give thanks for the people in your life this year? Will you give them your most valuable gifts of time and love?