The gifts we tend to remember are those that came from very thoughtful noticing and resourcefulness by others. When they notice something special about us earlier in the year or remember something we loved months ago and it shows up in our stocking, there’s just nothing better, right? My daughter, my mom, my sister and most especially my husband are all much better than I am. So, I have learned from each of them and improved over the years. I try to look up recipes and make things my daughter likes. She and my sister value how a gift is wrapped almost as much as the gift itself, so I try to make pretty packages. I remember to make little gestures every time I see my mom to ensure that she knows she is loved. And my husband values time on our sailboat so I try to make sure we get there soon if I see him getting antsy about work. Right after Christmas is over, it’s time to head there and get some quiet time.

Imagine what a great year 2020 might be if we all do some things differently. Like, create a little system for ourselves to make note of special things our loved ones value and surprize them throughout the year. The world might be just a little bit better because of us.