At the risk of sounding like a broken record, 2020 has generally been a difficult year due to the COVID – 19 pandemic bringing life as we once knew it to a screeching halt. Quickly having to navigate a ‘new normal’.
As difficult a year as it was, we have to acknowledge the good that came with it – having to slow down, being innovative, practising self-care and being kinder to one another.
The family has been a big theme for 2020. From spending most of your time at home, learning to forgive, creating memories and taking nothing for granted.
Holidays this year have defiantly been different, but for the most part exciting. Allowing us to see the good in 2020. The festive period is generally the most celebrated time of the year the world over and there will be no exception to the rule this year.
‘Tis The Season For Gifting
With just a few hours to go, final decisions are being made with regards to what will make it on the menu for the Christmas feast. The Christmas Trees are up, with a couple of gifts scattered underneath leaving enough room for Santa’s drop-offs.
When you’re a parent, you know that’s your queue, regardless of whether the kids believe in Santa or have outgrown him. You’re either a smart shopper who picked something out during the course of the year to save yourself the stress of bumper to bumper traffic and long lines in the stores, or we are figuring it out together now. Which is also ok.
Gifting is very personal. I believe that a gift has to be meaningful for the person receiving it which means you the giftee should put some time and thought into the gift. Many times it’s the thought that counts above all else. In actual fact, some of the best gifts and best times aren’t always the most expensive.
I’m only attending to my Christmas shopping now and would love to share some of the techniques I’ll be using to make sure I don’t break the bank with plans and gifts but still have a fabulous bedazzled Christmas.
The Best Gifts Start With Love
Typically, the 5 Love Languages are ways in which people express and receive love. I have come to the conclusion that one can use these as a tool to better pick out gifts for all occasions.
A couple of months ago I got sat down with my husband and wrote down what we thought each other’s Love Languages were. We had never actually talked about them. Turns out we did know what the love language of the other person was. It was a fun exercise.
I have 2 boys, Leboko aged 9, and my 4-year-old, Shalom. From as early as 2yrs old on their birthdays I request educational gifts from friends and family while we complement that with something they’ve always wanted or is trending.
However as they grow older from the age of 4yrs their likes and dislikes start to form, and this is where one might start to pay attention to nurturing their love languages.
This year, Shalom wants to go to Hawaii! He’s been talking about it for over a month now. Just this morning he wore a lei and island danced. A friend gave me an idea to do a themed breakfast or pool party in the meantime. Then there is a Red Monster Truck I’ve been reminded of since I can remember. Now, he’s finally responsible enough for it.
What do we have in mind for big bro? He’s a sneakerhead – but I’m not convinced by High Tops – we hardly go anywhere and like mom they walk barefoot at home. So for him, I think we will invest in his artistic talent. Set up a mini studio, with paint and for now, one can of spray paint to be used under supervision. He’s been trying to convince me over the last couple of weeks about letting him spray paint.
Quality Time is our household love language. With both Mummy and Daddy off work we will be spending lots of time together. At home, outdoors horse riding or visiting sites.
Christmas Gifts Ideas Inspired By The 5 Love Languages
Quality Time
Centres around togetherness and undivided attention. Take a slow drive with no particular destination in mind, listening and singing along to your favourite carols.
Make a booking or buy a voucher at an endearing scenic Bed & Breakfast.
Puzzles and 2 Player Games.
Words of Affirmation
Any spoken or written words which affirm, support and uplift another person in a positive manner.
Personalised Pen and Journal
Items with messages which one sees daily, ie Mug, Pillow/Cushion, Fridge Magnet/Picture Frame
A jar with 365 personalised messages
Gifts
Often misconstrued, a person who feels love in this way, can cherish a gift however big or small. Whenever they see it, it’ll remind them they are loved.
Sign them up for a class they have been wanting to take.
Make a playlist and explain why you chose each song.
Buy them something they’ve wanted for a while.
If your loved one is a patriot, buy them a locally produced gift and support a local business. We are sure that they will have a sense of pride every time they use or remember their gift.
Acts of Service
This love language is best described as doing something for another.
Be very hands-on with Christmas lunch and coordinating kids and family who come over.
Purchase something which helps with a problem area in the house. For example a dishwasher or spice rack in the kitchen.
Take on a chore you know they hate.
Physical Touch
Physical touch people prefer physical expression over all.
This could be a personalised blanket that you use to snuggle up together.
Redeemable hug & kiss vouchers.
Once you have identified the love language for the person you’re gifting, the next step would be to look at your budget which ultimately assists in concluding if you go the DIY route or store-bought.
Spread the love by sharing these Christmas gift ideas with your loved ones. Here’s to wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Stay safe, healthy and protected as we welcome 2021.
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