Each mug means I’ve been remembered

One of my close friends likes penguins. So when I saw an ad for a diamond-art penguin, I ordered it — in a moment of possible insanity. After many, many hours of dropping tiny black and white “diamonds” into minuscule openings, I presented her with a sparkly, smiling penguin to adorn her desk.

I’m always on the lookout for things to gift. Of course, birthdays deserve a present, and I wouldn’t miss the chance to bring back a “souvenir” from an Israel trip. Sometimes, a visit to the local dollar store will inspire me to pick up some craft or squishy toy for a grandchild.

Is there a downside to my willingness to give out gifts? Is it spoiling children, making a relationship about what they expect to be given? Well, I’m going to have to disagree on this one. Spoiling’s in my contract! I base my actions on what I always fantasized having a grandmother would be like. But there is more to it.

The post The Gifts That Keep on Giving first appeared on Mishpacha Magazine.