Still Shopping? Check Out These Ideas

Yes. Time is short. But here are a few ideas for memorable gifts. For example: My daughter’s honeymoon in Hawaii was made more wonderful in that a significant portion was paid as gifts through an online registry. The couple registered for traditional gifts, as well, but family and friends really latched on to the idea of buying a helicopter tour, or even toward travel, lodging and car rentals. For our soon-to-be son-in-law’s birthday a few weeks before the wedding, a share in the helicopter tour was much appreciated; far better than a gift card to a home improvement store. It got me to thinking about how to apply that to holiday gift giving.Experiences can be priceless. But what can you buy, affordably, to create a gift of unforgettable memories? There are always Broadway and concert tickets, which are an option but can get pricey. And you have to be careful about giving a gift that is going to cost the recipient. Will they have to pay for travel and food? If so, those costs may have to be included in the gift. Let’s explore the options in our own backyard. Doesn’t seem like much at first glance, and online approaches are not really an option. But let’s break it down. On the subject of entertainment, movie tickets and/or a ride to thetheater may seem mundane, but for a cash-strapped teen, it’s a great gift. The Moviehouse in Millerton, the Cinerom in Torrington and Mallory Brook Cinemas, in Barkhamsted sell tickets online. Better yet, let the recipient decide. Offer to spend an evening out with an older person, or bump up the teen gift to include one or more of their friends. How about an introduction to a potential new pastime?Continued from page 5 Mohawk Mountain ski area in Cornwall offers group and private ski and snowboard Plessons that start at $30. The country clubs in North Canaan and Sharon have golf pros on staff for lessons. At Lime Rock Park in Salisbury, Skip Barber Racing School has a variety of classes, from defensive driving to the thrill of formula racing. Maybe you know someone who has always wanted to learn to paint, knit,crochet, play the guitar, cook, speak a foreign language, ride a horse, playchess or be more computer-literate. The list is endless. Here’s where you have to get creative. Start with the local newspaperclassified ads, and online sites such as Craig’s List. Go to your locallibrary, or art gallery to find contacts for artists and craftspeople whomay offer lessons or know who does. Consignment shops, such as the newly opened Just Another Hand in North Canaan, feature work by local craftspeople. Any of them may be giving lessons. Some things to consider are how many lessons are needed, compared to howmuch you are planning to spend. Will the recipient be willing and able topay for continuing sessions? How about a trial membership for Curves? But be sure this gift will not betaken as an insult. On the flip side, there are wonderful mail order desserts made in Cornwallat Matthews 1812 House. Give these last two together. Or don’t. Check the yellow pages, classifieds and online local business listingsfor more personable approaches to media services. Local pros are availableto install satellite TV, upgrade home stereo and theater systems and getthat home computer running like new. Maybe the experience of a pet is just the thing. The Little Guild in Cornwall requires an application from the prospective owner. If you’resure your giftee wants a cat or dog, and will be able to care for it,offer to pay the donation. Animals receive all vaccines, spaying orneutering and necessary medical treatment before they are adopted out. Or head for Canaan Valley Pet Shop in North Canaan for a selection ofsmaller animals, fish, birds and reptiles. You might consider, say, purchasing a goldfish bowl and accessories, and giving those along with a gift certificate for Goldie. It seems clear from this list that wonderful memories make the perfect gift.