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I heard Christmas music in the store today. I should not have been shocked, but I was.

It seems that Christmas paraphernalia ends up in the stores earlier and earlier every year. Retailers are vying to get your attention so you’ll use your finite Christmas dollar to buy their product instead of someone else’s. This invokes multiple issues in my mind, but the one I’d like to address today is this–do we really need all this STUFF? When is enough enough?

Because I was curious, I typed this phrase into Google: “things that will make you happy”. I was, again, a little surprised at what came up, this time pleasantly so. One of the top sites in the search result listed things that were not “things.” The “things” that make us truly happy are not tangible items (in fact, one of the “things” was actually getting rid of “things” by decluttering). They are experiences.  

If you think back on Christmas or birthday celebrations from your youth, I am willing to bet that your favorites probably involved a fun event rather than a particular gift (unless you got a pony–I never got a pony). I invite you to recreate those feelings for your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, or other important children and teens in your life.

A number of years ago I really outdid myself. I planned and saved and created a really cool experience for a special person in my life. Of course, I got two tickets so I could enjoy that outing with them. What was it? A hot-air balloon ride. Was it awesome! YOU BET!

Here are some other suggestions for “experience gifts”: 

  • concert tickets 
  • sporting events tickets 
  • Discovery Hunts 
  • pedicures or manicures 
  • paint nights 
  • game night kits 

The list could go on and on, and as Christmas gets closer, I just might! If you want a sneak peek at that list, visit your local Discover Family Fun Facebook Community. 

One of my close friends recently gave a Discovery Hunt experience to one of her grandchildren for her birthday. This is what she has to say about it, "It was so much fun being able to share this special day with family all across the country. At this point we have kids living in five different states, from Florida to Oregon and New York to Oklahoma. Using the Birthday Hunt we were able to 'be together' to share favorite memories and pics, and share everyone's version of 'Happy Birthday'. It was Awesome! We are doing this for all 41 birthdays this next year!”

Distinguish yourself this holiday season–do something new! Try an experience gift and see what a difference it can make.

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