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A friend of mine gave us a Christmas basket this year chock-full of DVD's, gift certificates to the local movie theater, boxes of Goobers, Juji Fruits, Whoppers, Milk Duds, Mike & Ikes, and Junior Mints; even a 2-liter bottle of coke and several packages of microwaveable popcorn. It ended up being one of our favorite gifts. The movies entertained us and the candy brought back good memories.

We were so impressed that we stole the idea and put together a basket for my boss, who is very difficult to buy for. Not necessarily a movie buff, he only occasionally attends the theater or rents a video. However, because he and his wife entertain family, friends, and grandchildren during the holidays, I took a chance hoping the movie basket would prove useful. The gift was a hit.

Here's how to deliver a smile and a little nostalgia to a movie buff you love:

BUY MOVIES THEY LIKE
My boss likes inspirational films based on true stories like Sea Biscuit, and Pursuit of Happy-ness. I bought him a copy of The Greatest Game Ever Played and The World's Fastest Indian, both somewhat obscure but very inspiring movies. He liked them both.

BUY MOVIES THAT ARE APPROPRIATE
If you are buying a gift for a couple with small children, be sure the movies are family friendly and include some candy that kids like. Throw in a few juice boxes along with the soda.

GIVE WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD
Don't break the bank on this gift if you can't afford it. We spent about $50 on the movie-lovers' basket, and that is a lot of cash for some families. You can skip the gift certificates to the theater (where a single ticket can start at $8 or $10) and purchase a smaller gift certificate for the local video store. Buy individual bags of candy rather than the more expensive movie-style boxes, and keep the basket relatively small.

DRESS IT UP
Be creative in making your gift look inviting. If you don't have a basket, go to the local movie theater and get the large cardboard popcorn tub. Line the bottom with shredded gift-filler or wadded tissue paper. Next, place the largest items in the center or at one side. Layer the smaller items around it. Pick up fliers for new releases at a video store or theater and tuck them in between the items. Sprinkle Tootsie Rolls or fruit chews among the finished arrangement and wrap in a huge piece of colored cellophane drawn toward the middle and tied with curly ribbon.

Keep a spirit of fun while making and giving this gift, and you'll be remembered fondly by those who receive it.

Learn more about this author, Janet Mcleod.
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