Eventually,
we all grow up to establish our own families and social circles.
But the relationship between siblings is a loving thread that
runs throughout our entire lives.
Chances are
your sister was your first best friend with whom you secretly
plotted (against your parents or an older sibling!) or shared
invaluable advice about fashion, makeup and dating. More
than likely, little brothers probably got their first dance lesson
from a loving and patient sister.
Of course,
there were the inevitable battles for parental attention, or arguments
about borrowing your stuff, but you were always there for each
other when the chips were down.
A sister is
truly a one-of-a-kind FRIEND - so at gift-giving times like birthdays,
holidays, or graduations you want to get something especially
thoughtful.
If you are
still close, it's easy to decide on a gift that will truly touch
their hearts. But if you've grown apart, or now live miles away,
a phone call or email to discuss their birthday plans or other special occasion will likely
restart a familiar heart-to-heart talk.
Any conversation
about their plans or dreams will usually hint at an appropriate
gift. Maybe they've taken up a new sport or hobby, or plan to
travel to some exotic location. A book, a gadget or a gift certificate
related to their new interest makes for an appropriate gift.
A collection
of their favorite body lotions or cosmetics
make for a great gift basket idea. Or, fill it up with their favorite foods, and don't forget to include snacks or junk food that you
both liked as kids!
At the gift shop...
Look for special curios like
coffee mugs, picture frames,
or this sentimental "Sisters"
statue with interlocking hands.
While you're browsing at your favorite gift shop, be sure to ask about gifts especially for sisters. You might be surprised at the number of items they have on hand such as keepsake photo frames, "best sister" coffee mugs or T-shirts, and other gifts ranging from the funny to the heartfelt and sentimental.
For a real
trip down memory lane, present a special scrapbook
of old family photos you can give as a special keepsake. In addition,
search online for affordable services that put individual photos
on cups or t-shirts for a very memorable personalized gift.
Do they need
some down time? Treat them to a spa
day, dinner for two at a fancy restaurant, or - if you live nearby - an offer to cook or baby sit
for a much-appreciated night off. As the song goes, "sisters are doing it for themselves", but sometimes they need a
little help!
In hard economic
times, also don't be afraid to ask about what they need or want
(hey, that's what siblings are for!) Sometimes, flowers and a warm
hug may be all that's required to show you will always be there
for them.