My dad wasn’t big on gifts. He felt that being your best everyday was a gift to all of your loved ones. (I, on the other hand, am my best only now and again, so friends and family are very likely to receive gifts from me.)
After my dad retired from dairy farming (not from farming, just the dairy), he had more time on his hands. He and mom could take more time when they ran errands for the farm since there were no bossies waiting for his return. They would not only stop for lunch near their destination, but visit friends or family, stop by the nature center, and do a little site seeing.
On one of their afternoon outings, they enjoyed the Nature Center. It is always a delight to be there in that protected space. A while later, my mom received a hummingbird wind chime set that they’d seen at the Nature Center’s gift shop. My mom was thrilled! Not only did he get her a gift, but he had to go back later to do so!
Actually, dad gave us all gifts every day: a pleasant conversation, not judging us when we made mistakes, showing us his love of animals, sharing his memories, and so much more.
Today, the hummingbird chime is still in our front yard. Mom and I still think of dad when we see or hear it. One of those gifts that keep on giving.
Moral of the story: The greatest gifts of all, are the gifts of time, talent, and talk.
Humor Happens 