Some Unique Gift Basket Giving Options ----------

It won't surprise you to hear that I am sure that gift baskets or rose bouquets are ideal for every gift giving occasion. There are so many types of gift baskets that I can find one to fit everyone's taste and personality.

Obviously, you enjoy giving on the usual occasions: Easter, Chanukah, Kwaanza, Christmas, New Years, Birthdays and Anniversaries.

Giving at those usual times is fun, but it's even more exciting to give at some of those forgotten times:

* Memorial Day.  Remember the recent passing of a friend's loved one by sending a gift basket.  Or you may want to have a nice arrangement of flowers delivered to the departed's church.

* Speaking of Memorial Day, any three day holiday weekend provides us an opportunity to show someone you care. Labor Day, Presidents' Day, July 4th, etc. When a friend invites you to a barbeque, why don't you send them a thoughtful gift of pre-made, heat and serve appetizers. If you're lucky, maybe you'll get to share some of them!

* Retirement.  Let the boss provide the gold watch or the clock that has to be dusted.  Provide some party food, and maybe they'll invite you to come share it.  Or order some for yourself and help them celebrate at your home, and add a champaigne gift basket.

* Funeral.  Most families are overwhelmed by flowers and other memorial gifts.  Why not send them a gourmet gift basket a week or two later? Most people could use some thoughtful attention at that time. And don't forget to call every once in a while, too. Write it on your calendar so it doesn't slip your mind.

* Housewarming.  A new plant is ideal for someone who has recently moved, including someone who has moved into an assisted living environment and may be a little discouraged about it.  (Actually, when I move there, I would prefer a gourmet gift basket! I love to eat and hope that I always will.)

* Many of us get a touch of cabin fever during the winter months. Send a loved one a fresh fruit basket or some beautiful yellow flowers to brighten those grey days.

* Newlyweds might encounter a bit of a letdown feeling when they return from a honeymoon. It's time for them to get back to normal life, and they may have some catching up to do at work. Wouldn't that be a perfect time to send them chef prepared gourmet meals?

Being kind and thoughtful to someone when they least expect it is even more fun than giving that perfect birthday gift! Try it, I'll bet you enjoy it, too.

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Greg Porter is a big fan of a variety of gift baskets. You can find other articles about giftbaskets at www.99GiftBaskets.US.