by Joyce D. Sinclair

Created on: July 07, 2009

I saw in the church bulletin last week a notice for a moving party. And at the bottom it specifically said, NO GIFTS WE'RE MOVING. At first, it seemed kind of odd. Who doesn't like gifts? But then it hit me about the moving part (because we just moved last year). It is kind of hard to pack to move when everyone comes out of the woodwork to give you going-away gifts.

But there is one thing that no one can turn down: food. Unless you're having an I've-stopped-eating-food party, then it's a sure hit with everyone. It's especially considerate to people who may be getting ready to travel or go to college or something along those lines. Something that can be consumed within a day (or at the party), such as gourmet desserts, nuts, or a nice bottle of wine or top-shelf liquor is ideal. That way, the gift is accepted, yet it doesn't go to waste, nor do they have to find a place to put it.

In a report asking people what their plans were for their personal spending, most people would rather spend their money on an experience (such as see a professional sports game or a Broadway show) rather than on things (such as TVs, clothes, etc.). Food falls into this experience category. Whether it's a nice bottle of wine or a bucket of wings, the experience of eating and drinking with friends transcends other gifts and the effect lasts longer.

Food is also a useful gift. You can bet it will be used if not immediately, then within a few weeks. (Unless you are a vegetarian and someone gives you a gift card for Chuck's Beefatorium and Meatery. Maybe not so useful.) How many times has someone given you a pen set or stationery? And you think with the best intentions that you'll use it, only to be found in a moving box from when you moved the last time. I guarantee that you won't want to put a food gift in a moving box.

Another gift trend that has become popular in recent years is the restaurant gift card. The other day I was standing in the checkout line, and there were tons of gift cards to all sorts of restaurants. If you couldn't find a restaurant that you like, I don't know how you eat. There were even some that were accepted to three or four restaurants (which were owned by the same company). This is also a great gift, especially for someone who lives far away or someone who is traveling. It's a small token, yet it still shows an appreciation to the person. And you're still giving them the experience of going to their favorite restaurant.

The gift of food or drink is a gift that does not go unnoticed or unused. It is touches the senses in a way that other gifts cannot. Whether it's a gift card to a restaurant or a bag of gourmet roasted almonds, you're not only giving the gift of food but a gastronomic experience.

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