by Virginia L. Allen

Created on: May 06, 2010

Gone are the days when new neighbors are greeted on their doorstep by members of their small community bearing gifts.

While those days are long gone, a few neighbors and neighborhoods have continued this tradition of hospitality by sending out the "welcome wagon", bearing gifts that range from baked goods to flowers.

However, if the simple act of choosing a gift for those we're already acquainted with presents a challenge, how much more so is this case for people we have just met?

If you are at a lost regarding finding a great gift for your new neighbors, here are a few gift ideas to help get you started.

1.) Houseplants - known as a natural air purifier; an indoor houseplant is a great gift idea for your new neighbor for two reasons: 1.) it will make their home look nice, and 2.) it will help filter their home's air.

Here's a quick tip: choose a low maintenance indoor plant in case your neighbor does not have a "green thumb." In addition, opt for a houseplant without flowers since they will work well for those who have allergies.

2.) Sun-catchers - if you want an inexpensive way to bring the beauty of the sunlight into your neighbor's home, then a sun-catcher is the perfect gift idea. Whether they are hanging sun-catchers or ones that are adhered to a glass window, your neighbor will be able to enjoy watching the splashes of colors emitting from such a thoughtful gift.

3.) Wind-chimes - gift your neighbor with the sound of music; get them a great set of wind-chimes. Here's a quick tip: If you think they may be bothered by the noise, then stick with a sun-catcher.

4.) Decorative Stepping Stones - this is a great gift for either the garden or the front and back entryway of your neighbor's home. Decorative stepping stones are attractive, simple to put in place, and are very practical.

5.) Book Ends - despite the widespread availability of the Internet, just about everyone possesses a small library of treasured books in their home. What a great way to display some of their all-time favorites than with a great set of bookends.

Here's a quick tip: when choosing a set of bookends, stick with a simple and basic style so that they will match just about any decor.

The next time you are looking for a simple, yet great gift for your new neighbor, why not choose one from this list?

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