Several years ago Lindsey and I decided on a general rule that we would try to give
experiences as gifts rather than
stuff. We feel this makes gift-giving more meaningful since it usually requires a little more thought and effort in finding the right gift. We also find it can have a lasting impression.
Looking back I can remember specific gifts I had received as a child: a red fire truck, a bike, some Lego sets. But those memories are not as strong as the experiences given to me. I'd have to ask my dad if he remembers, but I remember going to a football stadium as a kid to see his alma mater play. That experience is a major factor in why I love collegiate football. (
That, and because Aggies rock! WHOOP!!)
For Father's Day this year, we gave my dad four tickets to a minor league baseball game. We picked a date that coincided with Gramma Camp when the older girls would stay with them for a week. Seats were front row on the 1st base line AND it was $1 hotdog night. We included parking so they only had to show up. They had a blast! Sydnee did end up with a souvenir, but it wasn't just another ball to add to our
stuff: it was a foul ball she got to take home from her first baseball game. That ball is much more meaningful to her (and my dad) than anything else we could have thought of.
